Compassion?

A 'truly compassionate being' begins with a demonstratable strength of character deepened by personal experience. Acquiring personal experience is not determined by an individual talent for compassion. As in all human experience, this individual 'wisdom' arrives only from facing one's own life challenges head on with grace, a sense of humility and cooperation. Not only that, but if there is one, life's profound 'inner essence' and 'meaning' 'asks' individuals to develop a healthy perception of those challenges without judgment. In some this is honed as a humane balance within, weighing both 'good' and 'bad' as perfect. This is not a semantic emotional juggling, it is accepting the coexistence of the whole Self, of one's own humanity. It doesn't matter whether personal life experience is wonderful or horrific, but the character of a person who understands each as a life lesson carries with them an empathic personae. In other words, they are able 'to walk in anothers shoes.' This empathy is not determined by nationality, religion, creed or even education. It is not a personality badge nor is it visible. It is the cloth of humanity worn within from the universal understanding that each of us -- as human beings -- have more in common by the virtue of life's challenges, whether these come from its wonder or from its horrors. In this, they are 'masters' at observation. A truly compassionate person understands, accepts and practices the belief each entity is special, a one-of-a-kind treasure, never to be repeated. They do not merely tolerate 'the differences' but concretely celebrate them in every manner and way possible. They are humanities cheer-leaders and teachers, while at the same time being a perpetual student of life. They do not rush to judgment, even when their society may hold a different view. In their own way, they are also pioneers in their time and place. They transmit the essence of love and peace available to all, while they comprehend the fragility of being, even in themselves. They grasp we all take turns in the circle of life, whether that is gain or loss, knowing none of us as exempt. With these mentioned, they also practice 'a loving no' when and where appropriate, appreciating and accepting this may be the best compassionate answer and action to some people, some situations, some circumstances. These individuals are appreciative, grateful and responsive. Further they do not make the choice of kindness toward all as 'duty' but as privilege. `