I am steadfast in my goals to make a change in the world, even if just in some small way which contributes to the larger plan of a better world for all. May I be a pillar of strength and compassion today and everyday,  for all whom I meet. – Pamela J. Leavey

(Photo: Baby Marsh Wren Leaves the Nest ~ Pamela J. Leavey 2012)

I ran across this quote the other day and found there was so much to ponder…

Compassion and emptiness are two sides of the same coin.  Don’t relax your grip on compassion, and don’t let emptiness become nihilistic nothingness.  To cultivate these two in union is very important. — Rinchen Tashi of Gyalzang

Life is always such a balancing act.

(Photo: Hybrid Day Lily ~ c. Pamela J. Leavey 2012)

“Love is acceptance. Love is compassion. Love is honesty. Love is the perfect Rose, that blooms in the sun’s warm glow. Love is the laughter and the smile of a child. Love is the knowledge that, all things are as God created them. When I accept that, I open my heart and soul, to ceaseless possibilities.” – Pamela J. Leavey

(Photo: Red Poppies ~ c. Pamela J. Leavey 2011)

Compassion is vital in our day to day existence…

The human capacity to care for others isn’t something trivial or something to be taken for granted. Rather, it is something we should cherish. Compassion is a marvel of human nature, a precious inner resource, and the foundation of our well-being and the harmony of our societies. If we seek happiness for ourselves, we should practice compassion: and if we seek happiness for others, we should also practice compassion. ~~ His Holiness The Dalai Lama

When we ourselves our struggling we must remember that we are still capable of having compassion for others. It is in that compassion that we lift ourselves up and we lift up those to whom we give our compassion.

Via His Holiness The Dalai Lama on Facebook…

“Generosity is the most natural outward expression of an inner attitude of compassion and loving-kindness. When one desires to alleviate the suffering of others and to promote their well-being, then generosity – in action, word, and thought – is this desire put into practice. It is important to recognize the “generosity” here refers not just to giving in a material sense, but to generosity of the heart.”

We so often equate generosity with a monetary or material worth, but in truth a single smile, a good thought towards someone, a visit, time spent with a loved one who is ailing, all of these things are generosity in action.

“Let us cultivate love and compassion, both of which give life true meaning. This is the religion I preach. It is simple. Its temple is the heart. Its teaching is love and compassion. Its moral values are loving and respecting others, whoever they may be. Whether one is a lay person or a monastic, we have no other option if we wish to survive in this world.” ~~ The Dalai Lama

“It is clear that feelings of love, affection, closeness and compassion bring happiness. I believe that every one of us has the means to be happy, to access the warm and compassionate states of mind that bring happiness. In fact, it is one of my fundamental beliefs that not only do we inherently possess the potential for compassion, but I believe that the basic or underlying nature of human beings is gentleness.” ~~ The Dalai Lama

“Compassion is not religious business, it is human business, it is not luxury, it is essential for our own peace and mental stability, it is essential for human survival.” ~~ Dalai Lama

“Today, I will offer love, compassion and understanding to all. I will call up upon my Higher Power to see each of my loved ones and all persons through the eyes of Love. I will not judge, I will not speak of hatred, I will not retaliate. Today, I am a messenger sent by the Higher Power to heal the world.” ~~ Pamela J. Leavey

”Soul grows in communion. Word by word, story by story, for better or worse, we build our world. From true conversation – speaking and listening – communication deepens into compassion and creates community.” ~~ Sam Keen – Hymns To An Unknown God