I kind of understand why people get all into their soap operas and dramas and such: experiencing such strong emotions without having to deal with their actual, real-life consequences can be cleansing.
It’s different when it’s not fiction.
Take Rori, for instance, whose blog I’ve been following for a couple months now. Her mother died almost three years ago, and reading her “Mom” category is absolutely heartwrenching on so many levels. Apart from the poignancy of the tale itself, it also helps me remember those I’ve lost (my Granny, my first stepdad, my Memaw); and it helps me remember that not only have I not had anything so horribly grievous happen in my life, but that I should count my blessings and let my loved ones know that they’re loved.
‘Tis the season, after all.