Compassion as a Path to Peace

Dear Friend in Peace,

Our minds are willing and able to create a list of failures, shortcomings, and other nonsense with which to torment ourselves and others. Fortunately, we can choose to ignore harsh comments whether they come from within or without. Instead of condemnation, we are free to choose compassion and gentleness for ourselves and for all we meet.

Some years back, I was determined to be more compassionate and focused solely on my compassion for others. After some years of lavishing compassion on others, I was confused as to why I did not feel more peaceful. Finally, I understood that for me to sustain compassion, I needed to start with myself. Being willing and able to forgive my lapses was not as easy as forgiving others, but eventually I did, and compassion became a more sustainable practice for me.

A vital part of my daily self-compassion is walking. I have talked with my friend Sally about this, and we both recognize that we tend to go a bit nutty if we don’t walk or otherwise move our bodies actively every day. While walking, my body responds with an inner joy and my heart fills with blessings from trees, birds, clouds, neighbors, plants, and the simple, yet profound delights of breathing and movement. Other self-compassion essentials for me are being in nature, meditating throughout the day, and playing the didgeridoo, gong, and bowls.

I love the magical truth that self-compassion builds a solid foundation for compassion for others. If we can be gentle and forgiving with ourselves, it is easy to be gentle and forgiving with others. This is the essential work of peace: creating sustainable practices that nurture peace.

Discover the peace that flows from your generous loving heart. Start each day with self-compassion though meditation, a walk or whatever charges your circuits. Practice compassion towards everyone you meet since judgment has no place on the path of peace. Simply hold loving kindness in your heart and all else will eventually fall away in a heap of compassion.

Thank you for choosing peace in your thoughts, words, and actions. I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Yours in peace and love always,
Donna