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.
I just finished writing my post about this for tomorrow. It’s been so wonderful to read what people have written so far and to see how they interpret it. Wouldn’t it be amazing if this helped make the world a better place, even just a little bit? I’d like to think as a whole our words can at the very least get people thinking.
Bev recently posted..Crafting an idea with my own two hands
That would be amazing, Bev! I’m already seeing a lot of activity on Twitter. Can’t wait to read your post!
anotherjennifer recently posted..Wordless Wednesday: #1000Speak is Friday!
I loved reading your thoughts and ideas and today so far has truly been such hopeful and wonderful experience so far with all the amazing posts on compassion.
Janine Huldie recently posted..Sisters Helping Sisters With Compassion #1000Speak
Thanks. Heading over to read yours, Janine!
anotherjennifer recently posted..Living in the Moment and Trusting the Process
Oh hun. I didn’t realize it was THIS week. Sigh…
I love this post- all of those beautiful things you have on your list- YES!!! I want to copy it and frame it, because THAT is compassion. We all need to check on this list regularly, and make sure we are living this life of ours FULL of this life-giving, life-saving compassion.
YOU are the epitome of such a word. I’m SO glad you shared this, amidst all you are going through. Oh, what an incredible woman you are. I think I love you more, every day…
Chris Carter recently posted..Help A Mom Out! THIS is Compassion.
I love YOU more every day, Chris. Oh, how thankful I am to have you in my world. Your compassion means the world to me.
anotherjennifer recently posted..Philanthropy Friday: What Compassion Means to Me #1000Speak
Like Chris, I didn’t realize it was this week either. 🙁 I hope you were able to get your chapters finished and I hope you’re handling this anniversary date as well as you can. I’m thinking about you and hugging you from afar.
It’s been my pleasure to get to know you better this year and I”m glad we had the opportunity to work together. And I love your definition of compassion. xoxoxoxo
Alexa recently posted..1000 Voices for Compassion #1000Speak
Thank you, Alexa. I’m so happy we’re working together too. I have so valued your friendship this year.
anotherjennifer recently posted..Living in the Moment and Trusting the Process
How fitting that the feature this Friday is YOU 😉
Love you girlfriend xxx
Sisters From Another Mister recently posted..Unleash a passion #1000Speak
Thank you, Nicole. Love you too!
anotherjennifer recently posted..Philanthropy Friday: What Compassion Means to Me #1000Speak
I am so grateful that you are a compassion voice in my life and that you are part of my loving supportive community that does not judge. You continue to amaze me, Jen. Strong, mighty, compassionate, dignified. xo
I could write the same words to you, my friend. Love you!
anotherjennifer recently posted..Philanthropy Friday: Finding Love Through Volunteering
I love your list so much. This week, I’m having a really rough time.
I’m sorry about that tough anniversary – hopefully you know how much you and the boys are flourishing and beautiful.
Tamara recently posted..Ditch the Tripod – Sharp Handheld Photos Every Time.
I do know this, Tamara! Thank you. 🙂 I hope to see you and your kiddos soon. We need another adventure.
anotherjennifer recently posted..Philanthropy Friday: What Compassion Means to Me #1000Speak
I love your list!
And this idea of a village…. we all need to help one another more. Inject more kindness, and less judgement into our world.
And truly… a simple smile at a stranger can completely change the course of their day. and it costs you nothing to give.
Rorybore recently posted..Tuesday Coffee Chat: What is Love?