The greatest skill that one can possess is the ability to practice and display compassion. I
believe that compassion is a talent, a skill that can be perfected. Webster’s dictionary defines
compassion as a “sympathetic consciousness of others' distress together with a desire to alleviate
it.” There is, however, an even deeper meaning within that. It can allow one to feel and create
connections with those around them and emphasize the empathy and hope that they feel for
them. Compassion is what encourages a glimpse of hope in even the worst of situations, and can
show people a light that they may have never seen before. This is supported by the fact that
compassion actually bonds you closer to people. Scientists have even found that when we
display compassion, “ we secrete the ‘bonding hormone’ oxytocin.” (Greater Good Magazine).
This also means that by displaying compassion, you also encourage positive behavior from
others and model how they can act towards others in future situations, creating a better overall
environment. Compassion is an important leadership skill and vital characteristic for one to have.
To have compassion is to be understanding and forgiving, but many will tell you that that makes
you soft, that you are a people pleaser who just lets people walk all over you. However, the
reality is that you will possess what much of our society has come to lack, which is compassion.
One can practice compassion in different situations and in different ways, but it is not always
easy to demonstrate. I always find myself sticking up for people, even if I know they wouldn’t
do the same for me. This demonstrates a key rule about compassion, that you must always
portray it without expecting anything in return. You should not show compassion in order to
benefit yourself, but for the sake of others. Sometimes, you may find yourself losing your sense
of compassion, especially when it comes to people hurting your loved ones. But, in order to truly
understand and practice compassion, in these situations it is expected that you keep that “feel for
another” mentality. This means that you have to make exceptions and try to understand people,
even if you don’t necessarily agree with what they have done or said. I often demonstrate
compassion to others by giving people the benefit of the doubt and encouraging others to do the
same. My take and perspective on compassion has developed through my own personal
experiences. There have been many instances in my life that have led me to develop my skill for
compassion, beginning with dealing with my siblings and continuing throughout my life, most
significantly in my position as senior class president. These experiences have shown me the
benefits of what expressing kindness and compassion can do. Compassion helps you connect
with others and create a trustworthy and appreciative foundation for all relationships.
Compassion preaches the idea that life is far too short to hold onto hate, so choose empathy,
altruism, and selflessness instead.
Sources
© 2023 The Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley
© 2023 Merriam-Webster, Incorporated
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