Reflections on Compassion
“Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.” Pema Chödrön
“Compassion, however, is a renewable resource. When you are able to feel empathy but then extend a hand to alleviate someone’s pain, you are less likely to burn out. Research indicates that compassion and empathy use different regions of the brain and that compassion can combat empathetic distress.
It is also important to remember that oftentimes, the smallest act of compassion can have the biggest impact. For example, has anyone ever truly listened to you as you share your feelings? Did this person listen without trying to fix you? Was this person relating it back to their own life? Did they listen without judgment? Simply listening with your full presence can be one of the most compassionate acts you can offer. Unfortunately, compassionate listening these days is rare as it competes with busy lives and technology that distracts us from being present. There is always time to become an expert and I encourage you to try it.” Brent Brown
“If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.” Anonymous
“Having compassion starts and ends with having compassion for all those unwanted parts of ourselves.” Pema Chodron
“Compassion comes naturally when you lose your overinflated sense of self-importance.” James Pierce
“Ego builds walls, compassion bridges.” Maxime Lagacé
“Having compassion starts and ends with having compassion for all those unwanted parts of ourselves, all those imperfections that we don’t even want to look at.” Pema Chodron
“Self-compassion is simply giving the same kindness to ourselves that we would give to others.” Christopher Germer
I hope you enjoyed this reflection on compassion as much as I did. I am curious which inspired you the most?
Other Posts You May Enjoy:
Blindness – A Spiritual Teaching in Seeing
The Art of Knowing is Knowing What to Ignore
Spiritual Training on Humility – The Janitor Part I
Does Kindness Make You More Attractive? Research Says Yes!
Do Something Good For Someone Else, and Don’t Get Caught – Kindness
Michael Swerdloff
Providence Holistic Counselor, Coach and Reiki
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