Showing and giving compassion...

I want to start off by saying that I was really upset a couple of weeks ago but have let time to give me the opportunity to not vent on here and make a fool of myself. So, I am able, after giving myself some time, to now write in a calm manner and with compassion which is really what life is all about, isn't it? Simply showing and giving compassion.

It was brought to my attention that I was the laughing subject in regards to my having to had to go the food bank (bread line in the UK). All I have to say is that for those who are accountable of your unkind words and thoughts that I hope YOU never have to resort to that. You are obviously truly blessed and should be ever so grateful to be where you are in your lives.


(Photo courtesy of 4everadream.blogspot.com)

With that said, I will continue with the purpose of this entry...showing and giving compassion.

I recently watched a very moving, very powerful and compassionate segment on a national TV show, "60 Minutes" here in America. The segment was called, "Hard Times Generation" which dealt with families who have been reduced to no jobs, little or no money and living in their cars/trucks. It is reported that 25% of Americans are in poverty...THAT is 1 out of 4 Americans!

WOW! I had NO idea how bad it is here. There are more details that are shared in the video. I will not go into politics (which I never have nor ever will...!)on this subject. Just sharing the reality...no need for placing blame as there are plenty of people who are doing just that without my input.



What moved me tremendously are the children of the impoverished parent(s). Their outlook on life put me to shame (I hope that others who judge like I have of those in need feel the same way) as I listened to the kind and mature words they shared. Their wisdom is so beyond their ages (in particular to one set of children interviewed)- 15 years old and 10 years old.

These children go to regular school, yet live out of their cars/trucks. Some have had to lie about an address to be able to attend school. Some have had to use the bathrooms of gas (petrol) stations, stores and other places that have bathrooms...to brush their teeth, bathe and etc.

That is just a scenario of what life is like for some of these American families living in poverty. Please take the time to watch the enclosed video. It will make you think twice before you complain about your woes. Ask yourself..."How have I made a difference in another person's life...a family member, a friend or even a stranger?" Don't get me wrong...it's great to be there for family and friends. But, for me...I like to step out of my comfort zone to help someone who has it harder than me...to remind myself to be humble and to hold back the negative thoughts that do not show compassion.

When I look at my mother, Betty Tisdale, who is a world renowned humanitarian who still at nearly 90 years of age dedicates to giving back to the human race. Orphanage work is her passion AND her compassion to help these orphans who have no one else to help...in particular the wing of an orphanage she helped to establish for children younger than 10 years and younger...alot of beautiful yet malnourished babies. This is in Kabul, Afghanistan where she just returned from last month. The following video will show you how she will stop at nothing to help others in great need...

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IF my mother at the near age of 90 can show compassion in a worldly manner then it should not be so difficult for me to do my part to help improve humankind by showing compassion here in America...in my own backyard as they say. For instance, volunteering at the food bank where I went. This has helped me to be open minded and empathize for those who have it harder than me.

My husband and I still own a house, a car and have a wonderful family (a soon to be 19 year old daughter in August and a 16 1/2 year old son). There are many who go through the line who are not so fortunate. So, I DO count my blessings. Therefore, I am now able to give back...being there for those less fortunate.

You will be amazed how even a gesture of a hug can mean to someone you don't know. Sharing a smile with those who have no reason or desire to smile. Or listening to a client at the food bank. Just anything that is beyond your normal way of helping. I am not dismissing helping a friend out or a relative...perhaps go one step further and reach out to someone who is a stranger.

Life is too short...as we painfully know through the most recent Colorado killings. Bottom line...take the time for others, please stop judging and improve humankind by showing AND giving compassion. Everybody has an opportunity to make a difference...no matter how small or big. Just find it in your heart to make some kind of difference.

I will end this with a quote from Mother Teresa, a true inspiration for my mother and me (and countless others):

Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.
Life is beauty, admire it.
Life is a dream, realize it.
Life is a challenge, meet it.
Life is a duty, complete it.
Life is a game, play it.
Life is a promise, fulfill it.
Life is sorrow, overcome it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is a struggle, accept it.
Life is a tragedy, confront it.
Life is an adventure, dare it.
Life is luck, make it.
Life is too precious, do not destroy it.
Life is life, fight for it.

― Mother Teresa