Compassionate Living
As we grow into a more spiritual means of living it changes our
outlooks and perspectives. What we once did not recognize or
were aware of in our conscious every day life, we begin to pay
attention to. We begin looking at the fine lines and intricate
details of our activities and the people and places involved. We
begin to look at ourselves more closely instead of just skimming
over the surface.
When we awaken these senses, we begin to have compassion for
others with the same ability or even lack of ability. We begin
to experience empathy on a more conscious level than just human.
This occurs because we are entering a positive state of
awareness. Instead of only seeing our little circle of friends
and family as a center from that which our lives extend, we see
ourselves as a part of the whole. We begin to recognize the
connection between ourselves and the world around us. We may act
as individuals, but how we act affects us all.
This concept is not limited to people alone. It extends far
beyond simply a human capacity. This concept stands for all
living things. We have the ability to recognize the connection
present in all life formations from humans, to animals, to even
plants. With this brain capacity and spiritual awareness, we are
given a responsibility to respect all of which we encounter.
This may be difficult for some human beings to see, as not all
life formations communicate in our language, however they do
communicate, and they do respond to positive and negative
treatment.
Plants are a primary example, as they do not speak human
language. If you care for a plant and nourish it with water and
sunlight, it will grow. It will increase in size and possibly
bare flowers or fruit, depending on its type. This plant may
give off pollen, seeds, and even oxygen to its environment.
Animals, human beings, and the environment where this plant
lives begin to make use of its offerings. If the plant is not
cared for, it will wilt, turn colors, and eventually, cease to
exist. So when we take care of one formation, we are essentially
caring for all other formations that come into contact with it.
We are responsible for preserving that which we encounter. In
fact consider yourself appointed to care for a life formation if
it is guided into your presence. If a stray or wounded animal
comes to you, then do as you see fit to care for it. If you
cannot care for it directly, take responsibility to seek a
shelter or loving home for the animal. You just may wind up with
a loyal and trusted companion in the end that you did not
realize existed.
We are responsible for preserving nature. We rely on nature
constantly without even thinking about all of the resources that
are used at the cost of our daily living expense. Think about
the fuel you use in your car. If this is something you use
frequently, think about what you can do to conserve. Maybe start
commuting to work through mass transit or a co-worker. Maybe you
are close enough to your place of employment where you can walk
or ride a bicycle. Look for healthy alternatives to a stagnant
lifestyle.
Sometimes we tend to become complacent with the technological
advances we use. Let them not replace adequate exercise, dietary
habits, or personal interactions. It is acceptable to use modern
conveniences, but don