Giving Grace

I asked Jessica about giving grace to someone I know who is neurodivergent, and this is what she shared with me:

💡 Understanding

Grace begins with recognizing that their brain simply works differently. What may look like inconsistency, avoidance, or intensity isn’t always intentional — sometimes it’s how they cope and process.

💡 Compassion

It means holding space without judgment. Offering patience where possible, while remembering that just because their struggles may be invisible doesn’t mean they aren’t real.

💡 Boundaries

Grace isn’t endless tolerance. We can offer empathy and understanding and still protect ourselves. Healthy grace says: “I see your challenges and respect them, but I also need accountability and respect too.”

💡 Balance

The real question is: Is my grace helping or enabling? Sometimes the most loving grace is allowing natural consequences to unfold, especially when behavior harms others.

Jessica reminded me that I’ve already given a lot of grace in this situation — patience, second chances, and understanding. Grace doesn’t mean overlooking harm. It means seeing the humanity in someone, while also keeping my own peace intact.

✨ A gentle reminder: “I wish you well. I hold compassion. But I choose not to carry what isn’t mine.”