Compassion for Thyself

By Arti Raghava, 28 February 21

Whenever we ponder about offering compassion, we always think of it in the context of presenting it to others, do we not? Yes, it is the right gesture for us to demonstrate for others in light of just reason. The proposition I make here is to urge you to contemplate that the person who deserve it the most and often do not receive it unconditionally, is ourselves. ‘Compassion for Thyself’ is something a remiss in all of our lives, is it not?

Take into account of all the times, you have been in the position needing compassion I am certain that observation would reveal that you were the last person who extended the empathy and kindness to yourselves or believed to have earned it. I do find it outlandish to imagine that being members of the one of the most evolved races that walked this earth, we at times stay eluded to this folly. I hope many will join me in the belief that we can only truly offer someone that we sincerely feel ourselves. Simply to evaluate this statement; we truly forgive other when we have forgiven ourselves first, and the word 'forgive' can be substituted with many such as love, respect, honor and onwards the list goes.

We are frequently judged whether as a person or professional for having empathy, consideration, understanding and responsiveness towards others, if we do not immerse ourselves internally with these wonderful gifts, then what chance do we have to genuinely provide those who are deserving of them equally.

If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.

Buddha

It is essential for us to reminisce and cradle this thought close to our heart which will bring amity in nurturing others that we associate with. I firmly believe that if we do not afford the adequate measures of compassion for ourselves than our ability to feel the same for someone else will diminish overtime. Even after great efforts that we may make in extending words & gesture of kindness, the recipients will find it lacking in authenticity. Every person is fitted with an internal radar if you will, some call it instinct, which cannot be altered as it guides us to form meaningful connections and reject the ones where genuineness is absent.

It does not come naturally to embrace this simple view, but if we consciously keep bringing our attention to it, recall will get easier. We must shower ourselves with the loving kindness, thoughtfulness, and compassion, or else we will fall short of truly feeling the same for others. It is therefore essential that we make ourselves the epicenter of this movement in always remembering to offer “compassion for thyself” and it will unsurprisingly spill over to the community around us, guaranteed.