July 24, 2019
Compassion literally means “suffer together” and practising compassion helps me stop comparing myself to others, to focus on our similarities rather than our differences and this, in turn, banishes negativity and destructive criticism.
Focusing on differences led to me isolate because no one could possibly understand what I was feeling, or going through. Isolation led me to very dark places. But practicing compassion opens the pathway to connections with others.
The addict I reach out to in a time of need, may well be the person who saves my life later (Living Clean p. 27).
Connection with other people offers me hope and our connection provides hope for others who may feel they struggle alone. I can practice compassion in many ways, through acceptance, active listening, listening with intent, kind speech (how I say things), and appreciation.
