Many people mistakenly assume that compassion is a religious practice. This is not the case.It is true that compassion is central to the ethical teachings of all the major religious traditions, but in itself it is not a religious value. Many animals can appreciate it and certainly mammals have a capacity for it.
Many people also assume that feeling compassion for others is only good for the others and not for oneself. This is also incorrect. Whether or not our kindness brings benefit to others will depend on a great many factors, some of which will be outside our control. But whether we succeed in bringing benefit to others or not, the first beneficiary of compassion is always oneself. When compassion or warmheartedness, arises us and shifts our focus away from our own narrow self- interest, it is as if we open an inner door. Compassion reduces fear, boosts our confidence and brings us inner strength. By reducing distrust, it opens us to others and brings us a sense of connection with them and a sense of purpose and meaning of life. compassion also gives us respite from our own difficulties.
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By Dalai Lama
Many people also assume that feeling compassion for others is only good for the others and not for oneself. This is also incorrect. Whether or not our kindness brings benefit to others will depend on a great many factors, some of which will be outside our control. But whether we succeed in bringing benefit to others or not, the first beneficiary of compassion is always oneself. When compassion or warmheartedness, arises us and shifts our focus away from our own narrow self- interest, it is as if we open an inner door. Compassion reduces fear, boosts our confidence and brings us inner strength. By reducing distrust, it opens us to others and brings us a sense of connection with them and a sense of purpose and meaning of life. compassion also gives us respite from our own difficulties.
By Dalai Lama
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