Oh yes. And like you say, it can swap around with quite an opposite, though I'd more describe mine as obliviousness, lol. Tuning into people, often strangers. Noticing unguarded moments. Recently had an experience with someone who is really feisty and fearless (especially considering her being very old). Something happened, and I saw fear in her eyes. It was positively visceral. I didn't think I knew. I knew I knew. (Mind you, I can't stand when people think they "know" more than they do to make as if they know you so well. And it's simply straight up delusion. Yeah, like my mother. Ugh.)
Anyhow! Back to the question. So much of it (maybe even all?) tends to be regarding the "less pleasant" states. Sadness, depression, loneliness, etc.. It's probably because they're so familiar, that all it takes is the subtlest of indications. (Yes, even when they think they are hiding it very well.) The challenges and exhaustion of "putting on the good face". Others are too busy in what is obvious to notice. Do you think there is something to that? The familiarity thing?
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