“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?”
― Martin Luther King Jr.
This might not be the most urgent question on your mind. I think it should be.
Here’s what I believe…if you are experiencing lack in any way…the solution is to give. Solution: the way to solve the problem…in this case, the way to solve the problem of lack in your own life. Give what you have…not compared to what others give…but the unique gift, the thing that you have to give. Stop and consider just for a moment…what do you have to give…YOU?
What if we all started out by giving kindness? What about that for a start? A smile, a word of encouragement, a little compassion…what about that? Decide to be kind…decide that you can give kindness. Having a little compassion doesn’t cost you a cent!
But how often do you step into judgment first…instead of compassion?
There isn’t a single religion I know of that doesn’t teach compassion. Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu…and a host of others. Show me any spiritual teaching that is based on judgment, criticism, unkind words, ambivalence. Show me any religious teaching that advocates self preservation over community…where it says ‘take care of yourself and others be damned’.
Look in the mirror. Be honest with yourself. Do you think about what you might give..or what you might get? Is your reaction to people, events and situations typically judgment or compassion? Notice your own thoughts and language…especially toward those you don’t particularly care for. Do you give kindness only to those you like, to people who agree with you and only in situations where kindness is returned?
There should be no shortage of compassion…ever. My urgent question to you…How are you showing compassion toward others…and I mean all others?
It’s urgent…it’s important…and you have it to give. Always.
Love
Paula
