sympathy vs "been there, done that"

I appreciate "sympathy" but with regard to giving advice I would prefer to ask from people who "been there, done that." I think they can relate more, than the superficial feelings from a sympathizer.

hi ania! if your talking about credibility alone, then i would go for the person whose been through the same difficulty you've been through.. im greatful to a friend who sympathizes but in those difficult times, you need help more than sympathy.. also a person whose 'been there, done that' can give you real solutions/advices that are tried and tested(sounds like MOMS!)lol though it doesnt mean that a person who sympathizes despite his/her lack of experience is lesser of a friend than that person who gives you advice based on his/her experience..

Hi, ania66. I would be more comfortable with a friend that has been through the same difficulty that I have been through. I can relate better to them. They know exactly what heartache and pain feels like. They never imagine it. They have experienced it. This is really the true and honest feelings of understanding here.

I think that that the sympathy and the been there, done that people both mean well. However, in certain situations, the "been there, done that" friends can tell you about their experience and how they coped or whatever the case may be. I just think they can relate better if they have actually went through a similar situation.