Why Compassion is Key
I was out at one of my BF’s engagement party this past weekend, when her soon-to-be mother-in-law told me that she “really respects and honors what you and Dan (my husband) are doing together to prepare for this baby.” And you know what? She was the first person to ever say anything like that since we began this journey three months ago and it felt sooo gosh darn good to hear.
You can learn how my husband and I have both changed our lifestyle by clicking here.
People have been supportive and said that they think what we are doing is great, but there have also been a good chunk of people who have said, “Omg, why are you doing this to yourself?” or they give us a blank stare and say, “Whatever floats your boat.”
I’d say that most people just don’t get it, which makes something somewhat new and challenging to go through, even harder.
What I’ve Learned
Accept the fact that when you do something new or different, you’re going to get a variation of opinions.
Some people are very traditional and don’t understand change.
Some people think their way is best and any other way is silly.
Some people are accepting of how you’re living your life and don’t really have an opinion either way.
Some people can intuitively sense the positive change that’s coming from you and say a few words to support you throughout the way.
I can for sure say that I have been one of those “some peoples” at least once in my life. In my early twenties, I was definitely much more opinionated, but through life experience, especially with what I’m currently going through, I’m learning that compassion for whatever anyone is going through is the key to spreading love.
What is Compassion?
My definition of compassion is: an open heart without judgment.
Judgment can be your temporary and false protection and is an easy way to block your emotions and shut down your heart. Without judgment, your heart is open and compassion is available.
With that being said, compassion can be a vulnerable state if you’re not used to it. Once you begin to see and accept whatever is happening to you or another person and without judgment, your heart will open and you'll naturally impart supportive words of advice or encouragement to either yourself or someone that needs it.
Simply understanding the essence of compassion is enough to experience the beauty of it.
Having felt genuine compassion at my friend’s engagement party, I have no choice but to pay it forward and trust that it will help others achieve love and acceptance in their own lives. Even if I don’t get what they’re going through, don’t like it or don’t agree with it.
Because compassion is trusting that people are doing their best with what they know, at this very moment.