Core ideas and feelings work in concert
If we only showed understanding of ideas, our response becomes too intellectual, too shallow. Recognition of ideas is important because it brings preciseness to the response. Recognition of emotions shows a grasp of the depth and power of an experience. Both are needed to show full understanding.

Let’s say a six-year-old child tells me in a sad voice, “My dog Trapper died.”

I respond with a straight face and even tone, “Your dog died.”

Is that response sufficient? Is something missing? What would you add?