I grew up in an abusive home. A home I never felt loved and unimportant. The way I was treated was to never talk about my problems because my friends would likely dump me. I grew tough, not mean, as in I have a handle on everything and kept any unhappiness and vulnerability inside.

Fast forward. I'm going through a rough time. I don't expect others to understand especially if they have never endured what I went through.
I have issues reaching out to people. Why? I'm scared of rejection. In the past I've had people say get over it or walk away from me. I felt abandoned. And if you are wondering- no I did not talk at length or all the time about my problems.

I know a guy who lives long distance. We are not best friends. It's hard to describe our relationship. Definitely nothing romantic. We do not communicate every day or every week. Maybe once or twice a month. He said if I ever need a listening ear to contact him. Communication is mainly email although we exchanged phone numbers 4-5 months ago.. Both of us are respectful towards each other, not pushy etc.

Yesterday I was feeling very down. I sent a text saying I'm having a tough time, not doing well. I sent you an email. In the email I described what I was dealing with, how I felt.

I also added my personal issue is nothing compared covid19 affecting people worldwide.

Many hours went by and no response. My automatic thought was great he's avoiding me. The rational side said he's very busy at work (busy career) and he cant respond yet. Eventually he did respond oh sorry, I'm busy at work and will read your email when I get home A few hours later he did respond with the following

Hi, I can't imagine how tough it is. You have been through a lot and you have indeed come through it all. I don't think it's fair to consider your issues any less important than what is occurring in the world. I would say our own issues are very important and surely should not be buried. I hope tomorrow brings you a bit more hopefulness.

I have a habit of putting my own struggles under the rug and focus on others. Yes I believe it's important to help others. But yet somehow I believe my own struggles are not important. Maybe it's because my abusive past and how I was treated. I've had therapy and better compared to years ago. I think this has to do with my past abuse and people telling me to get over whatever is bothering me, walking away etc. Maybe in that email I put my own issues are not as important compared to what the world is dealing with to protect myself from possible hurt?

What is your opinion? What is your opinion of the response from friend?