I had a bad case of it myself. The doctor called it compassion fatigue. It took just about 3 years to recover. I still marvel at the difference in me.

I don't have compassion for petty drama and soap operas anymore. Instead, my compassion is reserved for those who really need the help. You see, people don't need thoughts and prayers, they need help - as in physical help. Help with the work of caring.

True compassion is the willingness to give your time, energy, patience and physical help to another person in need - for free. To run errands, vacuum their house, do their dishes, mow their lawn or any other chore they need done. To sit down and bear witness, by letting them talk, cry, rage and saying only, you are not alone.

You did all this for your husband, but when you needed compassion, you were alone - no one was there for you. That's why you burned out. You were carrying the compassion burden for two, too long.

Time does not heal all wounds after all. It's not supposed to. In time, you too will find you've changed. Take heart, for you will emerge far wiser and kind in ways you never were before. The price of wisdom may be high, but oh how good it is.