Being of service to others does not require money or travel. Being of service to others does, however, require self knowledge and self compassion. Susannah Conway put this beautifully:
“In a society like ours, filled with so many emotionally wounded people acting out their pain, this is possibly the most important work we could ever do – heal our hurts so we don’t pass them on.”
Self knowledge allows us to identify our hurts. Self compassion allows us to heal.
Being a kinder friend. Being a more patient partner. Being a more pleasant passerby. These are all acts of service that promote the well being of others. And guess what? You benefit, too.
How lovely!
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Self Compassion Resources:
Tara Brach's Radical Self Acceptance
Kristin Neff's Self Compassion (check out her website, too!)
Tara Brach's True Refuge