There’s 2 kinds of compassion, idiot compassion and kick ass compassion. The only difference between them, is the root of where it’s coming from. Common compassion, is usually idiot compassion, a scary thought. Let’s look at the differences, and how to develop Kick-ass compassion.
The root of idiot compassion is selfishness, where the suffering of another is alleviated, so you don’t have to see them suffer. This kind of compassion has dualistic notions, of a me and them. This is like complimenting bad art, the artist isn’t going to get any better if they don’t get critical feedback.
Idiot compassion can also set up dependence. They have no power base of their own, always getting false praise externally. They become reliant upon someone to come along and tell them it’s OK. This keeps them powerless, and you in a constant situation of always coming to the rescue- not really compassionate at all, is it?
Kick-Ass Compassion comes from the place of wisdom, which functions in the world as compassion. There is no longer an I involved in helping or wanting, no looking after self’s interests, instead, actions come from beyond the self, and are truly selfless. An example of this is if someone falls over, you don’t think about picking them up, or an I, there is just the instant helping and instant pick up.
Developing your own centre of Kick-Ass Compassion isn’t something that can be forced, but there is something you can do. It’s a matter of sitting down and seeing how the world is for you. Yes, meditation is the key for developing this skillful compassion. The most helpful thing you can do in the world, the most helpful person you can be, the most skillful, kick-ass compassionate person you can become all comes from your sitting practice. Little by little, like drops in a big jar, a sitting practice develops kick-ass compassion. Get back on your cushion and begin developing your kick-ass compassion. (photo)
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The root of idiot compassion is selfishness, where the suffering of another is alleviated, so you don’t have to see them suffer.
This is such a true statement.
I think your on to something here. I hope I make it to cuhsion tonight and practice some kick ass compassion on myself.