Tonight I'll be discussing compassion, the challenges that come with it, and the concept of the "near enemy"—feelings that seem like compassion but actually lead to suffering. True compassion alleviates suffering, not causes it. There's a phenomenon called compassion fatigue, often mentioned in service, psychological, or medical fields. If compassion is exhausting you, it's not genuine compassion; it's something pretending to be compassion. Real compassion is soothing and never leaves you tired.
Where is it that you’re finding it difficult to be compassionate? Does being compassionate overwhelm you?
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Tonight I'll be discussing compassion, the challenges that come with it, and the concept of the "near enemy"—feelings that seem like compassion but actually lead to suffering. True compassion alleviates suffering, not causes it. There's a phenomenon called compassion fatigue, often mentioned in service, psychological, or medical fields. If compassion is exhausting you, it's not genuine compassion; it's something pretending to be compassion. Real compassion is soothing and never leaves you tired.
Where is it that you’re finding it difficult to be compassionate? Does being compassionate overwhelm you?
The Buddha taught that each person has a primary personality tendency, which is not clearly explained but could be shaped by childhood conditioning or karmic reincarnation. This tendency aligns with one of three main causes of suffering: greed, hatred, or delusion.
To identify your own tendency, notice your initial reaction when entering a room—whether you focus on things you desire (greed), things you dislike (hatred), or if your perception is clouded (delusion). For example, if your attention immediately goes to items you want, like a Buddha painting or a Motorhead t-shirt, your core tendency may be greed.
Do you have judging eyes? Are you present or spaced out? Do you have wanting eyes? What’s strongest for you: Greed, Hatred or Delusion?
Against The Stream
Tonight I'll be discussing compassion, the challenges that come with it, and the concept of the "near enemy"—feelings that seem like compassion but actually lead to suffering. True compassion alleviates suffering, not causes it. There's a phenomenon called compassion fatigue, often mentioned in service, psychological, or medical fields. If compassion is exhausting you, it's not genuine compassion; it's something pretending to be compassion. Real compassion is soothing and never leaves you tired.
Where is it that you’re finding it difficult to be compassionate? Does being compassionate overwhelm you?
