Advice from Sensei— Compassion

Compassion is the sympathy and understanding that comes from having a keen awareness of the relationships between all living things and the challenges and pitfalls we all face, everyday.

As Martial Artists, we possess strength inside and out, which helps us to manage the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges we face in our own lives. As strong as we may be, sometimes it never feels like we are strong enough; it is in those times of personal weakness that we most need the understanding and compassion of others like family, friends, and strangers. When you feel weak, it is hard to ask or accept help from others, but you know you need it.

The Black Belt knows his or her limits, and knows when he or she needs help, but most importantly, knows that the people around them are going through their own struggles. It is at this time that it is so important for us to show compassion. We have a responsibility to use our strength to lift up others who are going through their personal burdens.

As different as other people are from you, there are so many ways that you are the same. The compassionate person knows that we are all the same, save for the individual circumstances of each of our lives. As a community, we can all do better if we can do it together as a team with care and compassion for one another. Because, as the Dalai Lama says, “Compassion is not religious business, it is human business, it is not luxury, it is essential for our own peace and mental stability, it is essential for human survival.”

Remember, just as you find you need the compassion of others, others need compassion from you, and as a Martial Artist, strong in body and mind, you have a responsibility to show caring and compassion at all times.

#WordsOfWisdom