Compassion Lessons

Compassion connotes a mindfulness that others need care and help and comfort.

A few years ago, I needed a shot from my healthcare provider.

I don’t like shots.

Okay…I know nobody does.

It isn’t just the pain of the needle. I sometimes have terrible side effects from the medication.

I get very anxious and fearful. So I always ask the person giving me the shot to “Please use the tiniest needle you have, and stick it in the least depth possible, and leave it in for the shortest time you can.”

Typically, the person giving the shot reassures me, and acts as if they are taking great care. They seem to want to help me through what is a difficult moment for me.

On this particular occasion however, the provider said, “I give shots to people all day long. I know how to give a shot.”

It wasn’t my intention to give offense. But based on her reaction, I suspected that shot would hurt more than others I’ve endured.

Unfortunately, I was right.

Reminders

This situation was a reminder of a few things:

— People have different degrees of compassion.

— A person may be able to show compassion in one area, but not in others.

— When a person is offended, it’s extremely difficult, if not impossible, to show compassion and understanding toward the person they feel offended them. It’s easy to retaliate (consciously or subconsciously). And the lack of compassion remains as long as the person hangs on to the offense.

— People have different fears and troubles, and want compassion in those situations. Even if others around them don’t have the same fears and troubles.

What Helps Increase Compassion

Besides these reminders, what helps me increase my capacity to show compassion and caring for others?

— Asking God to change me and increase my ability to show kindness and care for others.

— Acknowledge when I struggle to be understanding, and do my part to purposefully find ways to be helpful and comforting, regardless of the circumstances.

— Even if the offense seems justified, do whatever it takes to get rid of the hatred and resentment. Before it destroys my ability to be kind and caring to anyone. And remember the times when I spewed negativity and anger — and damaged the spirits of others who were unfortunate enough to hear those hate-filled words.

— Remember that everyone’s fears and troubles are as important to them as mine are to me.

Why Increase Compassion

Why do I want to nurture and increase my ability to show compassion? Especially if I don’t receive understanding and care from others?

Because the fear of not getting help when it is needed, or believing that nobody cares, are two of the most painful, catastrophic emotions a person can have. They breed hopelessness and despair and corrode anything worthwhile in life.

I’ve experienced those emotions. Too many times.

They’re the most painful way I learned the lesson of compassion.

And I don’t want others to feel that fear, or believe that nobody cares.

The Biggest Reasons of All

But the most important reasons of all to show and continue to grow my compassion are:

— Everyone matters.

—Everyone is important.

Jesus didn’t look at people and say, “Oh, I’ll die for only those folks because they were born in a particular country, or only because they vote a certain way, or only because they go to a certain church.”

He died for everyone.

Because He knew from the beginning of time, that everyone needs the care and help and comfort that originates from Him.

The Real Lesson

The real lesson of compassion is to follow Jesus’ example, and show compassion to everyone.

What helps you learn compassion and show it to others?

Compassion Lessons – What helps you learn compassion and show it to others? Share on X

Joni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.

May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.