Compassion asks us to go where it hurts

Advent Day #2: 11/30/15 and Today's Advent quote from Pastor Michael was from Henri Nouwen:
"Compassion asks us to go where it hurts, to enter into the places of pain, to share in the brokenness, fear, confusion and anguish. Compassion challenges us to cry out with those in misery, to mourn with those who are lonely, to weep with those in tears. Compassion requires us to be weak with the weak, vulnerable with the vulnerable, and powerless with the powerless. Compassion means full immersion in the condition of being human. — Henri J.M. Nouwen"

It was a lot easier for me to be compassionate in my old job, when I was an academic advisor and on the University's Crisis Team.  But, I am still really good friends with my colleagues on the crisis team and, on occasion, there are some cases with which I am able to assist.  And although I was only assisting a colleague today, I know SHE was with the most vulnerable today in their times of need. And, I hope, by providing some assistance in getting data and trying to identify others who may need assistance, that I was able to relieve some of her stress as she relieved the stress of others.  I love helping others and showing compassion.  But, Michael's last reminder also rings true, suggesting that we can also
"show YOURSELF compassion, remembering Simon Weil pointed out that compassion directed to oneself is true humility!"

Psalm 1 was also on the reading list for today's Living Advent.  I like how the psalmist advises us not to follow the advice of the wicked.  Again, relating to Be Good and Have Fun, one of our family rules.  So maybe I have a chance of being happy!