The past couple weeks I have been amazed by the compassion shown by businesses, individuals, and actors during and after the hurricanes in Texas, Louisiana and Puerto Rico and the shooting in Las Vegas. A furniture store owner offered his entire complex to those in need of a place to stay; people waited in seemingly endless traffic to bring boats and to give blood; donations of goods and money continue to amass. The outpouring of compassion because of both natural and manmade disasters is a true testament to how people can come together to help others.
How can we use these experiences to change the way we look at everyday life? How can we develop everyday compassion? Simply by demonstrating compassion in everyday experiences and interactions by listening better (even if we do not agree), by thinking of others before ourselves, and most importantly, by practicing self-compassion. Even with the people we are closest to in life – including ourselves! – we are not always compassionate. Compassion can be demonstrated by giving space to show up differently, giving the benefit of the doubt, and making time to be present and just listen. How can you demonstrate everyday compassion this week?
“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.
If you want to be happy, practice compassion.”— Dalai Lama
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