Self-Compassion

14Oct
There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit;
 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord;
 and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in everyone.
To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.

-I Corinthians 12:4-8.


I am reading a book on “Self-Compassion” (Kristin Neff) which discusses how important compassion is for ourselves—and for our compassion for others. At a given point in time, society emphasizes the importance of certain traits, characteristics, and accomplishments. There are standards of excellence in terms of physical attractiveness and capabilities, intelligence and educational achievement, career and financial success, social popularity, musical skills, and so on. We may be self-critical, and feel deficient and even emotional pain when we fall short in relation to some of the standards of excellence. The Corinthians passage above reminds us that we all have different strengths—and that, generally, we cannot “be and do all things.” Neff writes that we “need to let go of unrealistic expectations of perfection.” This also is true for our actions. Often, despite our intentions, we make mistakes and harm others and/or ourselves. While important to try to be better, it also is important to recognize that everyone makes mistakes. It is part of our common humanity. When we can have compassion for our imperfections, it also can bolster our compassion for others. While not condoning continued harmful behavior, we understand that all people are imperfect, all make mistakes. Neff writes that “…everyone is worthy of compassion. The very fact that we are conscious human beings experiencing life on the planet means that we are intrinsically valuable and deserving of care.” (11) We are unique individuals yet sharing our common humanity in having different strengths and weaknesses. In this humanity, we are very glad and grateful to know that we all are beloved children of God: “For I am the Lord your God….you are precious in my eyes, and honored, and I love you.” (Isaiah 43:4). 


Musical Reflection - Lean on Me - Playing for Change


Dear God, please help us to feel compassion for ourselves and others that may enable living a better and more loving life. Amen.

CompassionLove

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