Compassion is a quiet, understated glimpse into the heart of another.  It is a quiet listener focused on comfort to ease the sorrow of another physically, mentally or spiritually or all.  It is aroused by the suffering or misfortune of others.

It is a comrade who unselfishly gives time, touch, or a kind look to someone in observed need.  It hurts when you hurt, loves who you love, and cries when you cry.

It is an electrical current that travels from your heart to another’s heart and carries kindness and mercy to the receiver.

Compassion is not fickle.  It is pure.  It is honest, for without honesty it is not real compassion, but superficial ego.  The fundamental energy of compassion is selflessness.  It is the ability to keep one’s eyes wide open for clues of pain, suffering or discontent, then responding in a way that eases the concerns of another by listening, physical deeds or mere presence.

Compassion can address an individual, a group or a multitude.  It is not picky or selective.  Compassion can split, divide and multiply.  When compassion is demonstrated, the observer or recipient may pass it along to another.

Compassion is a rare commodity in this world.  Some are blessed with it; some acquire it through life’s journey.  It takes the extra step to be aware and respond in any given situation.

It never asks for payment in return as it is a gift freely given.  It cannot be bought or sold.  It feels the simple joy of accomplishment even if the receiver’s observed pain is only slightly alleviated.

The Compassionate Tear carries healing power as much or more than other characteristics.  It is the outward, unabashed demonstration of caring and understanding that can be witnessed publicly.  Don’t be afraid to cry with another soul.  It can bind the wounds and free the spirit.

Do not confuse compassion with pity.  Pity holds a connotation similar to compassion; however it may never be acted upon.  One may take pity on a beggar, but leave him in the street.  If you have compassion for the beggar you will take a course of action to alleviate his pain at some level.

Those lucky souls who have compassion in their hearts, will also find peace, joy and contentment knowing they have shared part of themselves and made a personal connection with another.

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© Copyright Debra McCarty and viaperennis.wordpress.com, 2022. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to the author with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.