The Instinct of Compassion

I met up with a friend the other night and ended up in a discussion about compassion, good and evil. I have never believed there is such a thing as the absolute good or the absolute evil or absolute truth for that matter. The quest of finding the absolute good, evil or truth actually prevents us from moving forward. You usually get caught in a blaming game of who did what and why. After all what really matters is the change. The constant transition towards something "better", what ever better means.

Anyhow, I have been struck about how many people get stuck in comments such as "he/she did that, so I will not do that". We justify our lack of compassion, understanding and course of actions by the nature of the acts of the other person. Ultimately it doesn't matter. Isn't it better to change the situation instead of arguing about why we came to it? It has some relevance, but ultimately not. Often this is really the ultimate reason why do not reach out. We are stuck in the blaming game. It sure is easier and more comfortable to stay there, as you never have to address you part of the issues.

The same friend reminded me on how easy, natural and deep compassion is. It really is an instinct. You know that the automatic response of a mother when a car stops is to stop you from going over the road by reaching out their hand in front of you. Or when you hurt yourself, your hand automatically goes to that wound. We know how to do it if recognize it. It really is that simple, yet we fail miserable frequently.

Don't believe it? Think of how many people ran towards the World Trade Center 9/11. When we do not put logic on top of our actions and act with our heart we fear nothing and our instinct is to help others.

I do not remember where I heard this quote, but it is so true - It is an act of compassion not to be overcome.

Always look at the bright side of life...