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?
One of the topics I'll discuss tonight is generosity and the Buddhist teachings on the importance of giving, non-attachment, and sharing.
Generosity isn't limited to money—it's also about offering time, energy, and service. Consider: How do you practice generosity in your own life? Do you volunteer somewhere regularly? Do you give a portion of your income to organizations or nonprofits? In some traditions, such as tithing, people commit to giving 10% of their income.
Reflect on whether you allocate a certain percentage of your resources to giving. Do you mentor others, sponsor someone, or offer your skills and help for free, simply out of a desire to serve? Maybe you find fulfillment in volunteering at an animal shelter, a hospice, or offering help wherever it's needed.
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?
