Good Morning!

The weekends seem to be getting shorter! I hope you created some space to relax and decompress. We need all the excellent self-care we can get to sustain us through these hot and busy weeks.

I was pondering kindness and compassion over the weekend. A gathering on Friday evening prompted my wonderings, as there was an uplifting and selfless display of warmth and compassion among the young friends. Watching each of them intent on listening to one another’s stories, victories, and challenges without judgment and with focused interest gave me hope for the future of society.  

We tend to get inundated and overwhelmed by the negativity we see daily. I think we sometimes forget that positive events and confidence-building relationships are forming. We get wrapped up in the polarity of views and neglect to look at the tolerance and kindness that does happen and where forgiveness is a natural part of peoples’ lives.

Leo Buscaglia, American author, and professor was known as “Doctor Love.” People have reflected on his words since the 1970s. Here’s an example of his work:

Leo Buscaglia Quote: “Compassion is an act of tolerance where kindness and forgiveness reign. When we make the compassionate choice, we enhanc...”

The choice of compassion includes tolerance, kindness, and forgiveness. Practicing these principles promotes the dignity of all, both collectively and individually. Through the practice of compassion, we find it easier to love ourselves, thereby loving others in the process. The action seems so simple and reaps such extraordinary rewards. I struggle to understand why it’s so seldom practiced and understand how the absence causes tremendous division and conflict.

In Scripture, several verses that speak to the power of compassionate acts and thoughts:

“But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth.” Psalms 86:15 (NKJV)

“Finally, all [of you] should be of one and the same mind (united in spirit), sympathizing [with one another], loving [each other] as brethren [of one household], compassionate and courteous (tenderhearted and humble).” 1 Peter 3:8 (AMPC)

Why not choose to show compassion this week. First, look at what is going on around you that could use a good dose of kindness and tolerance. Then take the next step of forgiveness. You’ll be the better for it, having exercised your ability to display care and consideration and allowing others to realize their dignity. Finally, you will be showing love in action!

Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda