Pity

        "Pity is compassion. It is sympathy that is filled with regret for the suffering of others. We feel sorry for someone's loss or the suffering we see. As with other aspects of personality, there are different depths of compassion and pity that an individual can feel. We get caught up in the feeling and for a few moments we extend ourselves with love or sympathy. Yet, how many follow through on their feelings of pity for others? Intense feelings would seem to generate intense follow through, but such is not the case. Sometimes the pain of others is too much to dwell on so we extend our pity and then move on.

        Thinking should follow expressions of pity. What can be done? How can I help? What can I change? Even then, good intentions seem to be of short duration. How many times have you meant to contribute to an individual, a cause, or help a situation? And how many times did you actually follow through? As with so many things that demand our attention, we go too quickly from one subject to another. We distance ourselves when the emotion becomes too overwhelming. We cannot bear to look, see, feel any longer so we shut down and put it out of mind. The activities of our lives become the focus and that which is far away stays safely away from intruding emotions. This is not to say that many do not take the next step, not only thinking of how to help, but going to some lengths to find our what steps to take. Some individuals have been touched in the heart and contribute in a way that truly demonstrates compassion.

        We sometimes become overwhelmed by the number of tragedies and sad situations in life. It becomes numbing and we put on a defense, at times, without being aware of it. Where does it end, how can I help when there are so many who are deserving of pity? One must listen to one's heart. It is true you cannot respond to all though a good thought and a good prayer is always appreciated. Decide where you can make a difference. See what you can do that will help. Sometimes it is an individual who 'turns the tide'. Sometimes it is a group of individuals working together. Whether one or more working together, the concentrated aim and action will contribute.

        The next time you are touched by a tragedy and feel pity, look inside for new ways to make a difference. Give from your heart."