There are times for all of us (i think) when we fail to show compassion to others. At those times we are more concerned about being right than putting ourselves in the others’ shoes. Oh, we may be donating to causes, including to the hurricane efforts in Western NC and Florida, and those are worthy causes. I applaud the many people who have spent time and money reaching out to help the many in need. We should all show compassion in those situations. Regardless of how much or little we have, most of us have enough to share with others, and we should do so. The examples of people reaching out and helping people they do not even know are heartwarming. But let’s think of compassion in another way, closer to home.

We often fail to show compassion to those in our family or friend network, especially when we do not agree with their decisions or choices. This lack of compassion is usually found in how we say what we say, or what we fail to say, or fail to do. We do not have to agree with the others’ choices or decisions to show compassion. We just have to be kind.

We can all remember a time or two when someone close to us failed to show us compassion, and the hurt that we felt. A harsh word spoken can be carried around in our heart and head for days, and even longer. While we may try to convince ourselves that no harm was intended, we hurt.

There is also the failure to act with compassion, to reach out and do a meaningful deed for someone who is in need. We are often so self absorbed in our own stuff that we fail to recognize the needs of others, and do what we can to help. A friend of mine recently reached out to me in such a way, and I will always remember it.

Let’s look around at those who are hurting, and do what we can to help. We can offer a shoulder to lean on, a meal, or even money. It is harder to ask for help than it is to accept it. Our pride can get in the way. If we are paying attention, we can see when someone has a need. We can then do what we are able to do and choose to do to be a beacon of hope. At a minimum, we should not be negative, giving unwelcome advice when what is needed most is compassion.

When compassion is what is needed, let’s do our best to be compassionate.