What do you think of when you think of compassion? I am sure each of us will see it a little differently. Webster defines it as “having a disposition that is understanding, sympathetic, merciful.” For me compassion is only possible if empathy is present. Empathy is the ability to identify and understand vicariously the feelings of another. This means to be able to see something from others eyes, experience and suffering. This means having the quality of unselfish concern for the welfare of others.
There is not one who has not suffered, felt rejection, felt angry, lonely, sick, lost or unworthy at some point in their life. Compassion knows that and offers empathy. Compassion is putting empathy into practice.
