Every religion gives you basic instructions on how to live a compassionate life! So those who practice the teachings of their religion many times find fault with others. So what can we do? As Karen Armstrong notes in her book Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life - it is not a matter of only heart and mind but a deliberate and often life-altering commingling of the two. What I have learned as an immigrant to this country called the United States of America there is much to learn about a compassionate life. Every person has their individual story of becoming an American. There is a common thread. If you are going to make this your place of residence you need to learn the English language. It isn't easy but it is so rewarding. It provides you with the ability to speak to another human in a language you both can understand. It opens doors. It brings people together. There are many ways to be compassionate without speaking a single word and I have seen this throughout my life. One person sharing bread with another. One person opening a door for another. The one I like the most is when I am at the grocery store and the person in front of me let's me use the store savings card so I can save off my grocery bill. You can't imagine how many times I have seen the joy on thier faces. One action can light up an entire room.
We each have our challenges and our belief system. I hope that reading books like Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life will give you clarity in making even small changes. I work at this every day. Many times I fail but I won't give up.
Oh before I forget - a novel based on true events has been written by me. I think the reading of English literature - the literature over in England gave me the love for the English language. Of course, I enjoyed the Nancy Drew books.
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