We invest our stories with feelings
In addition to the core ideas, we can also recognize a Friend’s underlying feelings. Let's say we are having coffee with a friend who makes the following comment:

Well, I went to the doctor yesterday to get some test results. He tells me I have cancer. Isn't that just great? Now what am I going to do?

How does this person feel?

He or she is likely to be feeling frightened, angry, and confused. Tone of voice, facial expression, and body movement will help us recognize the feelings underlying words.

Why is recognizing emotions important? Why should we focus on feelings as well as core ideas?

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Finding the Hidden "I" (Feelings)