Della
What is compassion? ‘Compassion is in my nature, does that mean I care too much?’ Am I allowing my emotions to control me even if it goes against my better judgement? Do I care too much about my neighbour or even the stranger on the corner?
The definition of compassion is a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is hurting, in pain or has misfortune and is accompanied by a strong desire to help suffering. In other words, how much does humanity and all that goes with it affect your day-to day life?
Humanity is the human race, which includes everyone on earth. It is also a word for the qualities that make us human, such as the ability to love and have compassion with one another. Humanity is derived from the latin word, humanitas which means human nature. Humanity includes all the humans, but it can also refer to the kind feelings humans often have for each other. When people do bad things, it tests your faith in humanity. When people ask for money to help feed starving children, they’re appealing to your sense of humanity.
So if compassion is such an admirable quality, why is it that so many lack it? We live in a world where the general rule of survival is trample or be trampled upon. Some will say that compassion is a sign of weakness.
As everything else in life, there is a very fine line to draw. Without compassion for another human’s well-being, you might be seen as a self-centred narcissist. On the other hand, with too much compassion you might shoot yourself in the foot. We all have a purpose, a destiny, for some it might be to make life a bit more bearable for others. But it is not worth it if you destroy yourself in the process.
I had to learn that fact the hard way, there was a time in my life where I would try to move the planet for someone, I couldn’t understand why that same person would stab me in the back. I had to learn that it is not selfish to make sure that I am ok first, then worry about the rest.
I cannot think of a better song which says all I want to say, than Scars from Papa Roach, I just love this song, it speaks to my soul, and this might sound a bit weird but it is one of my feel-good songs. I can listen to it over and over and over again. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
To read more of my What is….? series, please follow the below links.
Truly compassionate people are hand to find and should be cherished.
That is very true. Thank you for stopping by 😉
It is a nice point in this article.c”,)
Thank you very much. Hope you enjoyed it.
This is a great piece Della! From the writer, The philosopher, and the teacher?
Aww thank you Bradley. It’s always nice to see when the pieces are appreciated. Haha people always ask me why I never became a teacher but I’m afraid I don’t have enough patience for a room full of kids.
Thank you very much. Glad you enjoyed it
I think Compassion could be summed up in these words from Bob Marley. “Live for yourself, you will live in vain live for others you will live again…
Well said. I am gonna have to look up the lyrics of this song now.
Wonderful and well-written article, I love these series!
Thank you so much Ellie. Hopefully I will be able to post another article soon.
Compassion is important if we are to live peacefully together in this world. We need to put ourselves in the shoes of others to understand their lives better and know how to best express compassion for those in pain. I took a training course that stressed we should have empathy. Empathy does not go down into a deep pit with a person. Empathy stands above the pit and reaches a hand down to pull the other up. If both are in the pit, one cannot pull the other out.
That sound’s like a very interesting course. Wouldn’t mind taking one as well.
Natural virtue, of course, also has its dignity. Because there is no reason to deprive the virtuous definition of such a person who, ignorant of any law other than the law of reason and conscience, has earnestly labored under that law for his moral improvement.
That’s also very true. Thank you for commenting.
Compassion is an important tool to have and use as a person. There is however, the other side, those who exploit. While I feel compassion for them, I stay away from them!
Wise choice Doc. I think I will follow your example concerning those.
I like the lyrics. His voice is a little raspy for me. Do you know if there are others that sing the same song? I am so glad you shared this.
Lol I love it, but I love my rock and punk rock music, just shows you how taste differs. I don’t think so as this is the original song. I am glad you enjoyed it.
Thanks for this article! I really enjoyed reading about compassion, we all need to use it but, as you said, ‘it is not selfish to make sure that I am ok first, then worry about the rest.’ Completely agree! 🙂
Thank you so much. It is something I had to learn the hard way. Used to allow people to walk all over me.
I always have a lot of compassion for people. Thanks for the article, it was very interesting to read.
Thank you so much, I am glad you enjoyed it. I love your name by the way (being a huge coffee lover)