Finding Our Way Back to Human Decency and Compassion

I’ve been thinking about what it means to be truly humane and compassionate. We’ve lost these qualities somewhere along the way, trading them for a world filled with division, judgment, and hostility. Why is it so challenging to extend simple kindness and understanding to one another? How do we find our way back to compassion?

What is Human Decency and Compassion?

Human decency is about treating others with respect, honesty, and fairness, regardless of their background, beliefs, or circumstances. It’s about doing the right thing, even when it’s complicated. Conversely, compassion involves:

• Empathizing with others.
• Feeling their pain and joy.
• Responding with kindness and support.

Renowned author Daniel H. Pink eloquently describes empathy as “standing in someone else’s shoes, feeling with his or her heart, seeing with his or her eyes.” This perspective allows us to connect with others more profoundly, fostering a sense of community and shared humanity.

The Loss of Human Decency

Reflecting on recent events, particularly the last election, it’s disheartening to see how human decency and compassion were overshadowed by anger and division. We witnessed individuals rallying behind figures known for problematic behavior, prioritizing power over principles. This shift left many of us bewildered, questioning how we arrived at this point.

It’s easy to feel powerless, especially when negativity seems overwhelming. Although we cannot change the past, we can undoubtedly influence the future by leading with kindness and understanding.

In my own life, I’ve witnessed the power of compassion in seemingly small yet impactful ways. I recall a moment at my local grocery store when I struggled to reach an item on a high shelf. Without hesitation, a young man nearby offered assistance, retrieving the product with a smile. It was a simple act, yet it spoke volumes about the kindness in our world. These moments remind us that each of us has the power to make a difference, no matter how small the act. These small acts can inspire us, making us feel empowered to shape a more compassionate future and contribute to a kinder world.

These moments remind us that compassion isn’t about grand gestures but everyday acts of kindness affirming our shared humanity. Buddhist teacher Pema Chödrön insightfully notes, “Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between equals.” We are all equals on this human journey, deserving of understanding and empathy.

The Path Back to Compassion

We must consciously act with empathy in our daily interactions to reclaim compassion and dignity. The opposite of anger is not calmness; it’s empathy. By taking the time to truly understand others, we can replace anger with connection. This understanding gives us hope for a future where empathy prevails over hostility and where we can all find common ground and understanding. Emphasizing the role of empathy in replacing anger can make the audience feel hopeful about the potential for a more compassionate future.

Psychologist Marshall B. Rosenberg emphasizes the importance of feeling understood, stating, “Every person should have the experience of feeling understood—the feeling of being seen and heard for who they are, in a way that affirms them.” We can offer this gift to others through patience, active listening, and open hearts. By actively listening, we show others their thoughts and feelings are important and valued.

I invite you to join me in a commitment to kindness. Let’s start by extending simple acts of compassion throughout our daily lives. Hold the door for a stranger, listen without interruption, and smile genuinely. Offer your seat to someone in need, help a colleague with their workload, or say ‘thank you’ more often. You can also volunteer at a local charity, donate to a cause you believe in, or be patient with someone struggling. These seemingly small gestures can ripple outward, inspiring others to do the same.

Though we cannot rewrite the past, we can shape the future. By choosing compassion, understanding, and love, we can build a world where decency prevails over discord. The benefits of practicing compassion are not just for the recipient but also for the giver. It can reduce stress, improve relationships, and foster community. Let’s be the change we wish to see and create a community rooted in kindness.

Together, we can rediscover what it means to be truly humane. Your voice is important in this conversation, and your experiences can inspire others to embrace kindness and empathy. I invite you to share your thoughts in the comments section below or on your social media platforms using the hastag, #CompassionInAction. Your contributions will enrich this dialogue and help us collectively work towards a more compassionate society.

References:

Nast, T. (2020). THE 11 PRINCIPLES OF CHARACTER: Overview. Journal of Character Education, 16(2), 11-18.

Malcom, D. (2019). The Critical Role of Self-Compassion and Empathy in Well-Being. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 83(10), 2049-2050.

Bob Boze Bell’s Big Bad Book of Bad Diary Entries: Three Kit Carsons And Driving While Angry. http://blog.truewestmagazine.com/2023/05/three-kit-carsons-and-driving-while.html