The Balanced Life Skills Way is “Compassion, Awareness & Respect”. Our focus this month is on the concept and action of Charity. How does Charity demonstrate each of these “Ways”?
Charity & Compassion – Charity is about giving to those in need without expecting anything in return. When we see a situation that is difficult, compassion calls on us, tugs at our heart and looks for ways to help. It may not always be another person. We can have compassion for animals, situations, the environment or an emergency. Our compassion may be based on fairness or justice or it may be a recognition of our inter – dependance that we have with each other when we feel the suffering of another. Developing compassion is related to empathy and having an understanding of what another may be going through.
Charity & Awareness – Charity like many other parts of our life begins with Awareness. If we are not aware of a difficult situation we will never be moved to act with compassion. As an example we may not be aware of the hunger going on in the world, or of the cruelty to animals that might be taking place or the violence against women in certain cultures. Until we are aware and especially if we are aware on a personal level – like we have seen it with our own eyes or held the children in an orphanage, it is difficult to be compassionate and charitable.
Charity & Respect – Charity is about respect for life and the environment. Being able to get rid of our egos, to be able to treat others the way we would want to be treated and the way they would like to be treated. Respect is not condescending nor does it allow for an attitude of superiority when we are giving.
Charity, our ability and actions of giving to those who are in need, begins at home with our own parents and siblings first, with an awareness of their needs, compassion for their feelings and respect for their rights. It is the Balanced Life Skills Way.