What is “compassion”?

dalaiOne simple definition of compassion comes from the Dalai Lama: Others, just as I do, have the right to be happy and overcome suffering. It is on the basis of respect.

This week, notice if you have genuine compassion. The true state of love, of happiness, is this deep compassion. And notice, this compassion includes you. Others share in your happiness.

Do you think that compassion is increasing in the world today or decreasing? Post a note on the blog.

3 thoughts on “What is “compassion”?”

  1. By definition compassion means a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering. A feeling of distress and pity for the suffering or misfortune of another, often including the desire to alleviate it. In these ‘textbook’definitions, I am not sure I see much as far as ‘taking action’ to alleviate the problems in the world today. I much prefer the definition of the Dalai Lama, “Others, just as I do, have the right to be happy and overcome suffering”. This implies a right of all of the people of the world. “The true state of love, of happiness, is this deep compassion.” I believe that we are evolving to want to create a space of love and happiness for all and that although it may take some time to get there, it is a journey worth taking.

  2. Yes, what an un-useful definition! Using sympathy to describe compassion. That’s like trying to describe blue by talking about yellow. Rather than talking about the negative, Dalai Lama is talking about the positive: right to be happy.

    May more people learn true compassion!

  3. If I can increase my own compassion then I have contributed to an increase of compassion in the world. So I must start right here…with moi.

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