"مهربانی یک فعل است"

Compassion isn't just something you feel; it's something you do. It's more than just having a warm, fuzzy feeling for others. It's about taking action to alleviate their suffering or to bring them some form of comfort. When we think of compassion, we often visualize a passive, gentle feeling of empathy, but true compassion requires us to step up and actually do something to help.

Let's go back in time to understand where this idea comes from. This quote can be traced back to the teachings of Buddhism, which emphasizes the importance of compassion as an active practice. The Dalai Lama often speaks about compassion in this way. He urges people to engage in compassionate acts—whether it's helping someone in need, volunteering, or even just being present for a friend going through a tough time. The key takeaway is that compassion should lead to action.

Imagine a scenario: You’re walking down the street and you see someone struggling with heavy grocery bags. You could simply feel bad for them and continue on your way. Or, you could act on your feelings, offer to help carry their bags, and walk with them to their destination. The latter is compassion in action. It’s not just about feeling; it’s about doing.

So how can we apply this in our daily lives? Start small. Look around you—who needs help? Maybe it’s a colleague swamped with work who could use a hand with a project. Or a neighbor who’s feeling isolated and would appreciate a friendly chat. Actively seek out opportunities to show compassion. It doesn't have to be grand gestures. Sometimes, it's the small, consistent acts of kindness that make the biggest difference.

Think about a time when you were going through a difficult period. Perhaps you were overwhelmed with exams, work, or personal issues. Now, remember that one friend who noticed you were struggling and went out of their way to support you. They might have brought you a meal, helped you study, or simply listened as you vented. This friend didn't just feel bad for you; they took action to help ease your burden. That’s compassion as a verb.

Now, let’s dive into a real-life example. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people were isolated and scared. Healthcare workers across the globe demonstrated compassion in action. They worked tirelessly, risking their own health, to care for sick patients. But it wasn’t just the healthcare professionals. In neighborhoods everywhere, people organized food drives, checked in on elderly neighbors, and made masks for those who needed them. These actions were driven by compassion—an active desire to help others.

To embody this wisdom in your own life, try this: Each day, set an intention to perform one act of compassion. It could be as simple as sending an encouraging message to a friend or as involved as volunteering at a local shelter. The key is to make it a regular practice. Over time, this habit will not only benefit those around you but also enrich your own life in ways you might not expect.

So next time you feel that pang of empathy, don’t just sit with it. Ask yourself, "What can I do to help?" Then, take that step—big or small. Compassion is a verb, after all.