Compassion: How To No vs. How To Know

How to No...

How to not be compassionate:

Step 1 - don't be aware.

Step 2 - don't be present

Step 3 - don't pay attention

How to Know...

Compassion is being concerned and showing empathy for ourselves and for others. To be compassionate, we begin by being aware, by being present, and by paying attention.

Being aware: actively paying attention and gaining knowledge of a person, situation, or fact. Being present: consciously existing now and staying out of the past and future.

Paying attention: actively focusing on or noticing someone or something.

In order to show compassion to yourself and to others, you must first notice. And noticing requires awareness, presence, and attention. Only after we notice can we want to take action. Start right now to know where compassion is needed. Be concerned and show empathy. Know compassion or no compassion.

"Compassion is the key in Islam and Buddhism and Judaism and Christianity. They are profoundly similar"

- Karen Armstrong - author and creator or the organization, Charter For Compassion