Our Hearts Go Out

"Our hearts go out to the families of the children killed in Uvalde, Texas." So says every politician, in fact every single person involved in or hearing about the debacle, from the police to the reporters to the visiting Matthew McConaughey who brought his whole family, including wife, three kids and brother, with him to grieve in his hometown. That's a whole lot of hearts. but what does that actually mean? Do you no longer have your heart because it went out to that person? And even more perplexing, how does it help?

When I have been grieving the loss of a loved one, which I have done too many times to count, I have never felt even the tiniest bit better because someone said they were sorry for my loss. Is that just me? I can't remember anyone actually saying that their "heart goes out" to me, or went out to me, or however you say it, but if they ever did, or ever do, I'm afraid it might make me laugh just thinking about the literal meaning of the words. (Look out, hearts incoming!)

If only euphemisms weren't required and people spoke plainly, we'd all be better off. Like saying to the parents of the Uvalde victims, "I know there are no words that can ease your suffering, but if you think of anything I can do to help you now, tell me."