Over the past two week — give or take — an extraordinarily beautiful chant has begun to circle the globe. Although the origin of the notes are humble, the crescendo has risen above the mundane and echoes transformation throughout the world. Even those who were jolted awake by that predawn call to action, have joined in the song of community. We are remembering the older unity — we are recognizing that we are all one.
This song circles the globe, permeates its inhabits, and sings with the voice of compassion. This harmony recognizes that suffering is not something that another is responsible for or deserves because of their choices. Suffering is recognized as a natural part of the human condition and as a way to meet challenges and learn life lessons. This compassion song sings us a lullaby not of sleep but of action awakened — it is our right, our responsibility to act in ways that alleviate our suffering and the suffering of others. These actions are the glue of our unity.
Our awakening is not without pain or consequences. In fact, we have been jarred awake with a profound call to action. Jolted from complacency, we no longer ask why. The “why” is inconsequential. Our questions are of how and where. Although we may wish we had responded differently in the past, our actions in the present are what is important. We shape the future with action in the moment. Let’s shape the present with compassion.
What does this mean? Find common ground instead of divisiveness when possible. Learn to let go of those who want to argue. Gravitate to those who work for peace and compassion. Welcome all to the table. And, dialogue with those present. Seek to understand when you cannot agree. Share compassion in big and small ways. Remember that all acts of compassion create a resonance of transformation.
Recognize that we do not know where our compassionate act ends. It is not necessary to know how many lives are changed or who is changed. We seek not glory for our actions; we seek only to be compassionate change agents. We live curiously, daringly, and courageously in a world of growing uncertainty and unknowning.
What can you do to form a community of compassion?
- Talk to someone as you wait for you coffee
- Help another put their groceries on the conveyor belt
- Smile at the intimate stranger you pass on the street
- Listen to the suffering of a loved one
- Attend rallies, meetings, marches — however you are called to get involved
- Educate yourself on the evolution of suffering
- Become part of the dynamic, flexible response of compassion
- Practice self compassion daily
We are the change community because we are compassion’s community. And, compassion demands that we see with our eyes and listen with our ears so that we can respond with our heart.
There is a beautiful, wild, ferociously gentle song echoing through the land. Lend your words and actions to its harmony. Be compassion.
Vanessa
Vanessa F. Hurst is a Mindful Coach, Compassion Consultant, Professional Speaker, and Author who interweaves her inner wisdom in all she touches. Contact Vanessa
Her books are A Constellation of Connections: Contemplative Relationships and Engaging Compassion Through Intent & Action.
More from Vanessa: www.intentandaction.com
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