Compassion Offers Comforts in Times of Need
by Scarlett Lewis
“Being there for another is the essence of compassion.”
Compassion has a unique ability to bring us together during the loneliness and isolation of ‘social distancing.’ Compassion is identifying with the pain and discomfort of another and then actively doing something to help ease the suffering.
When my six-year-old son, Jesse, was murdered in the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy, the world came together in compassion. It was incredibly healing for everyone as individuals from all over united with the victims’ families in their grief. The volume of mail overwhelmed post offices — tens of thousands of teddy bears filled rented warehouses and handmade quilts and scarves poured in. It was all sent with love and heartfelt compassion.
Knowing that you are not alone in your pain and being comforted in the company of others is the essence of compassion. This is what helps us not only get through difficult times but to also grow and be strengthened by them.
We at Mental Health Connecticut thank Scarlett for sharing her experience with compassion today for #31DaysofWellness and encourage our followers to take this lesson and reflect on how you can utilize this kindness as a self-care tool. Sometimes the hardest thing to do is to turn that kindness inward and show self-compassion. Be gentle with yourself and practice self-compassion today and every day. Learn how you can practice Self-Compassion below.
Self-Compassion and Our Inner Criticby: Dr. Brandon Nappi
