Other researchers at the same conference in 2010 sponsored by HH The Dalai Lama, including Barbara Frederickson, Mattheu Ricard, Phillipe Goldin, Richard Davidson, Charles Roison, and Geshe Lobsand Tenzin Negi, all spoke to research outcomes showing that we can cultivate compassion, in ways that build healthier bodies, relationships, cognitive alertness, willingness to help others, courage and fearlessness.
They found that very short, simple loving kindness meditation practice builds compassion in us for others. This was the case, even among foster children who had come from living situations where they experienced some form of abuse and loss. The building of compassion allows us to connect to others more fully, to be able to experience a collective ‘we’ and to find the empathy to work out our differences.
Q: What difference could more compassion make in our lives? What about in the workplace?
This was timely. I just read a particularly hateful comment on an inspiring post. In response to a program that helps ex-cons become better fathers, a snarky lawyer said the guys could teach their children to rob liquor stores.
ReplyDeleteRather than blasting him, thereby further entrenching his cynicism, I wanted a different response. I know that cynics are broken-hearted idealists. What sweet heart must lie beneath so many layers of defense? What does that broken heart need to hear? How can I bring love and compassion to him? Pondering. And noticing that his comment broke a part of my heart, too.
You all might be interested in this resource about empathy, a very close relative of compassion. http://cultureofempathy.com/
Thanks, Kim. That's a wonderful site--great resources. Sallie
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