THE COMPASSIONATE LIFE

     Throughout the year, we've focused on ideas that will help promote healthy relationships. But one of the most powerful expressions we can use to improve all of our relationships is our ability to be compassionate.
      The power of compassion is astounding. When we witness a natural disaster taking place on the other side of the world and our soul is compelled to do something to help, even though we don't even know the people involved, it is our compassionate nature that is playing a role here. Whether it is a stranger in another country or a friend in our own backyard, compassion brings out the best in us, allowing us to view humanity as a whole, to accept people for who they are, where they are, right at the moment, regardless of their individual beliefs and behaviors.
      For a life lived in a compassionate way reaches out to every person, touching them in a way they may have long since forgotten. But every soul responds to this compassionate touch for it is where we all began - from a state of pure love - and it is where we will all eventually return. This loving state is our perfect environment for growth, both for the soul and the subconscious. And when we extend compassion to another, we create that perfect growth environment once again, for ourselves, as well as for others.
      Compassion offers a safe space, free from judgment, condemnation, ridicule, hatred, a space of simple acceptance. Love is extended for who you are, right at the moment. No conditions, no "I'll love you when you change this, or do that, or stop some behavior." Instead compassion says, "I love you no matter what." For when the soul is motivated by compassion, we begin to connect with our Divine nature, to express an unconditional, Divine love.
      Have you ever experienced this kind of loving acceptance? These kinds of relationships bring true joy to our lives. They inspire us, uplift us, contribute to our self-esteem, motivate us to extend the same respect to others and generally help make our life more fulfilling.
      So if we choose to express compassion, does this mean we need to put up with unacceptable behavior in our relationships and become a doormat? Absolutely not! Communication is of utmost importance. But communicate from the soul's conscious point of view, seeking to resolve the issue rather than be right about it. We'll always have a wide variety of differing opinions, so let go of your resistance and allow others to have their own voice. But choose what's acceptable for you and walk away from what is not. Sometimes amazing resolutions can result when the righteousness of the ego is set aside and true communication takes place.
      The world would be a different place if lived from a point of compassion, and so would our lives. A transformation would occur. For we miss all the beauty of our relationships when we're busy picking at personality flaws. We could pick anything or anyone apart until nothing of substance remains. But is this the path to happiness? A judgmental outlook shrivels the inner being, leaving no room for life. Compassion inspires our spirit allowing us to see the beauty in life. And although it's always easier to be compassionate to those on the other side of the world than with those who are closest to us, it's well worth the effort it takes to extend our highest to our closest companions. For when we are compassionate to others, amazing results take place. You'll find people feel more comfortable around you, they're able to be themselves and share ideas they may never have voiced before. For you have offered them a safe space free from harmful condemnation.
      We can also use the power of compassion to help heal any wounded relationships. Far too many people look back at the end of their lives and regret the way they handled their loved ones. When you treat others with compassion, you'll have no regrets for you will have offered them your best and viewed the best in them.
      But we must remember that every subconscious has sustained various degrees of emotional damage that occurred during challenging periods of our life, times of trauma, stress, hardships or other forms of abuse. Realize that this damage occurred because our soul wasn't conscious at the time to help our inner child change this difficult situation, to make a wise decision or offer some guidance. Therefore, in essence, we have often left the child to fend for itself in a very stressful world resulting in a lot of defensive, mixed-up people. It is really the inner child who needs help to move beyond the hurt. The healing power of compassion can help to mend those wounds, both in ourselves and others.
      The next time you feel yourself resisting someone, take a step back, stop and get conscious, and consider the reason why you are resisting. Are you being petty or righteous or simply stubborn? Are you just having a bad day or in a bad mood? Or is this an important issue that you need to communicate about? Separate yourself from your resistance, replace it with understanding instead and finally, be compassionate. Then see if a resolution can be found, at least within yourself.
      But keep in mind, healing is an individual response, some wounds run deep and it is only the wounded person who can decide when to finally let go and allow the healing to take place. Some people will choose to hang on to old, negative habits far longer than they need to. But compassion will still help them on their path.
      So choose to follow a compassionate path and watch your life start to blossom. You'll experience the joy of good relationships and find your total outlook on life has never been better. Remember to check our schedule of events and join us for our next program to learn the step-by-step techniques to start using these ideas to create your best life.      Wishing you the joy of the compassionate life!

SANDY DALIEGE