The path of finding compassion, again.
“At times I almost dream.
I too have spent a life the sage’s way.
And tread once more familiar paths.
Perchance I’ve perished in an arrogant self-reliance
an age ago, and in that act of prayer
for one more chance went up so earnest, so…
Instinct with better light let in by death
that life was blotted out not so completely,
but scattered wrecks, enough of it to remain
dim memories. As now, one seems
once more…
the goal in sight again.”
~Paracelsus, Robert Browning
Thank you for sharing Paracelsus. I am in an in between place myself, and I find it calming.
I didn’t realize how sweeping the North Carolina law is until I saw your vlog and did a little research. I feel for you. I live in Florida, and I struggle with bigoted attitudes. I find the two most helpful things are
(1) Remembering how many people here hold similar values to mine. We just don’t always win at the voting booth.
(2) Remembering that bigotry and its circle-the-wagons mentality stems from fear, and that usually someone powerful is doing their best to whip up and manipulate that fear. This reminds to protect myself in the here and now from the unreasonable, hurtful, and sometimes dangerous behaviors of frightened people. It also helps me find, if not compassion, at least the first step toward compassion. I feel for people whose fears are being preyed upon. I’ve certainly experienced it, and the way it muddles my intellect and emotions.
I hope this is not too obvious or redundant. When I’m distressed or grieving, sometimes I lose sight of what is obvious in calmer moments.
It’s so good to see you, Ceridwen. Thanks for stopping by!
I have been struggling with the same issue for many years though have never thought of trying to find compassion, instead I have been trying talk myself into liking the area. I think by trying find compassionate towards my town I will feel more connected and not so much the outsider. Thank you so much for this 🙂
That is such a beautiful poem. Compassion is not an easy thing to always find. It takes a lot of strength.
Indeed, Savannah. One of the hardest things is to have compassion for something we don’t want to. Thanks for stopping by!