The Dalai Lama recounts the story of a monk who was imprisoned and tortured by the Chinese for eighteen years. He told the Dalai Lama that during his imprisonment, there were many moments when he felt he was in great danger. When the Dalai Lama asked what he was scared of, the monk said that he was in danger of losing his compassion for the Chinese, his captors! Holy wow. Can you even imagine being that compassionate?
It’s our true fundamental nature to be kind, generous, honest and peaceful but sadly many of us lose our way.
“By developing a sense of respect for others and a concern for their welfare, we reduce our own selfishness, which is the source of all problems, and enhance our sense of kindness, which is a natural source of goodness.” -Dalai Lama. Damn, he’s good! Oh teach me sweet Lama!
Gandhi said, “Whenever you are confronted with an opponent, conquer him with love.”
Showing compassion for ALL living things (even people we don’t like) can boost us way up on the karmic ladder. Everybody wins and it just feels so good. People who actively practice compassion produce up to 100% more DHEA, a hormone that pretty much stops the aging process! They also produce 25% less cortisol, the “stress hormone.” Stay young! Be compassionate!
We don’t know everyone’s personal story. Meanness comes from hurt. Those people probably need love the most.
Homework-be kind to someone you don’t like. It promotes confidence, relieves guilt and stress and it’s inspiring!
“Kindness is the light that dissolves all walls between souls, families and nations.” -Yogananda