Saturday, November 28, 2009

Compassion

The dictionary definition of compassion is 'the deep emotion triggered by understanding the suffering of others and wanting to do something about it'. Not to take anything away from the obvious applications of relieving suffering (world hunger, human rights issues, etc.), but I think we miss out on more "common" applications of compassion. Most people that we encounter in our everyday lives are suffering in some way. Even if we don't know what suffering exists in each individual, treating others with patience and kindness is often that 'something' that they need. That person driving 20km below the speed limit may need compassion. Your coworker that annoys the stink out of you. Compassion. The people you love and see everyday. Compassion. Seek out the lonely. Listen to those with no voice. Love those around you because they are.

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