Today is the day. The day 1,000 bloggers join together to write about compassion. Why? Because the world needs more compassion. People need compassion. And when one blogger noted that we all need a village at least once in our lives, another blogger had an idea that spread like wildfire. And here we are today.

I’m not going to lie. This week has been a tough one for me. One year ago around this time, my world changed drastically. I am coming up on the anniversary of telling my children their mother and father would no longer be together. That same week? I received an email containing a book contract to review.

There is so much to be happy about, yet still so much to heal from.

There were many times when I needed a village last year. I still need one every now and then. We all do. We are human. We are fragile, even when we are strong.

Compassion? It’s what keeps the world spinning. It’s what prevents us from giving up. Whether we are on the giving or receiving end of compassion, it gives us hope. Happiness. Gratitude.

We are living, breathing creatures who need love in our lives. Love that can come in many forms.

Since we are writing about what compassion means to each one of us individually today, I thought I’d sit down and write the first things that come to my brain. You can’t overthink compassion, after all. And, really, what better timing for me to reflect on compassion than right now? (Also perfect for Philanthropy Friday, as compassion is one of the simplest ways to give back.)

To me, compassion is:

• Encouraging words during a struggle
• Friends who know what you need even when you don’t
• Loving, supportive communities that exist without judgment or pretense
• The touching moment when you realize you are with someone who understands what you are going through
• Knowing sharing just a small part of your story has helped another
• Comfortable silence
• Reassuring hugs from my children
• Giving whatever you can, because there are people far worse off than you
• Saying I love you and truly meaning it
• Sharing a passion with the world
• Smiling at a stranger
• Listening
• Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes
• Letting your guard down
• Late night conversations about everything and nothing

What does compassion mean to you?

Each Friday, the another jennifer blog shares stories of those who incorporate philanthropy into their everyday lives – personally and professionally – in a creative and unique way. If you have a story you’d like to share, please contact Jennifer. Read past stories here.