ABOUT THIS GUIDE
Compassion is a deeply complex Buddhist concept which includes not only empathy but also a strong determination to help. These teachings always have us start with ourselves. If we have no awareness of our own suffering and our own wish to free ourselves from that suffering, then we won’t be able to truly benefit others. Developing self-compassion and then bringing that strength to compassion for others is the way Buddhists train.
REFLECTION
“Compassion is the best healer. The most powerful healing comes from developing compassion for all other living beings, irrespective of their race, nationality, religious belief, or relationship to us. We need to feel compassion for all living beings, every single one of whom wants happiness and does not want suffering. We need to develop not only compassion, the wish to free everyone from all suffering, but great compassion, which means taking upon ourselves the responsibility for doing this. This brings deep and powerful healing.”
– Ultimate Healing: The Power of Compassion by Lama Zopa Rinpoche, pg. 21
Books
Hopkins, J. (2001). Cultivating compassion: A Buddhist perspective. Broadway Books.
Jinpa, T. (2016). A fearless heart: How the courage to be compassionate can transform our lives. Avery.
Makransky, J., & Condon, P. (2025). How compassion works: A step-by-step guide to cultivating well-being, love, and wisdom. Shambhala Publications.
Talks or Teachings
Loving Oneself and Others by Pema Chodron
https://youtu.be/h4w60m4mTlw?si=mtH3E0CuVtXJPBSV
Expanding Your Circle of Compassion by Robert Thurman
Practices
Tender Self-Compassion Break | Soothing Meditation for Emotional Support by Dr. Kristin Neff
https://youtu.be/LX71ZTAsmg8?si=7Q-r6NhoQd_AuL4u
Flower Garden – Loving Kindness Meditation (Metta) by Ayya Khema
https://insighttimer.com/buddha-haus/guided-meditations/flower-garden-lovingkindness-meditation-metta
