Having an open heart is sometimes seen as a way to eternal bliss and joy, but in my limited experience, it is also a way to eternal pain…!
It seems that with an open heart, there is a continual mix of bliss, joy, pain, longing and suffering as well.
If it is not as pure and onesided as sometimes presented, at least it keeps me human and more alert – including to the suffering of others. It keeps me alive.