Monday, October 20, 2008

Compassionate realization

As I'm getting older and life has kicked me around a bit I'm realizing something: The people who are compassionate, wise, non-judgmental, sage and understanding have probably had some pretty heavy shit thrown their way.

Of course, some of the most bitter people have probably had some pretty heavy shit thrown at them as well.

When you are humbled by life you can get bitter or get insight.

7 comments:

bleu said...

Touche'

DCat said...

I think it can go both ways. Funny you bring this up as I was just having this conversation with someone else. I think empathy and compassion can be a learned thing. I think that more people need to have it. Some of this empathy comes from having experiences in life that you can relate to when someone else is going through them. These are the same experiences that make people bitter and hard. Some of it I think comes from who you are. As a kid, my mom always taught me to put myself in the other persons shoes. HAving had to walk in those shoes for what seems like years, has only hightened my level of compassion toward others but has made me angry at those who can't seem to muster any empathy. It's just plain tough to deal with.

Shelli said...

So very, very true. This has been on my mind a lot lately, after my Mom brought to my attention that despite the challenges I've faced over the last four years (many beyond this infertility crap), in her view I am a much more compassionate person.

I didn't even observe this about myself, but looking back at the examples she gave me, it makes sense.

So weird how that works, isn't it?

Anonymous said...

Amen sister!

Chelle said...

Hopefully, I get insight.... I went down the bitter road already and I don't like it.

Thank you so much for your kind comment. I really, really needed it.

sara said...

yeah, it's funny how it can go both ways, huh? hope you have nothing but good come your way!

Anonymous said...

Hear, hear!