17-Jun-2010

Compassion in Action

Kindness, the Key to the Kingdom

Gandhi said it. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said it. The Dalai Lama says it today. Though they use different words, these great men agree that kindness is the key to the universe. The spiritual leader Yogi Bhajan said, “Understand through compassion or you will misunderstand the times.” In a world where you interact so closely with technology, whether at work, school, or at home, it is all too easy to become isolated. The effect is that when you go out into the world, you are numb to the real concerns and conditions of others (and even yourself).

By attuning yourself to compassion, you begin to see others as fellow travelers. Kindness, then, is the next step. By taking action with compassionate consciousness, not only do you brighten someone’s day, you also engender positive thoughts and encourage a similar outlook in those around you. And it comes naturally: you pick up a pencil when a co-worker drops it or slow your pace when crossing the street, because there’s an elderly person going along with you. In short, kindness creates a heavenly environment. So, go forth smilingly. You’ll find a wonderful world waiting for you.

Recommended: An Open Heart: Practicing Compassion in Everyday Life