Close Compassion
The world gave us a masterclass this year. Many of us spent more time with those we live with than we normally would have. We were forced to examine the way we treat those closest to us instead of just those we were required to spend time with previously. The imperfection of our relationships was evident as nearness was enforced. Universally, we are often impatient and the least compassionate to those we love. It is easier to be nice to strangers. We care what they think about us and know that our family members will forgive us anything.
Free to Be Me
We like being ourselves around those we are familiar with. They most likely don’t have any choice. The satisfaction of being sarcastic or short tempered won’t ruin a relationship in short bursts but the satisfaction wears off quickly. Our thoughts about family and our standing in the pecking order always affects how we react. We want to see if someone will love us at our worst. It’s a gamble if overplayed.
Charm me
If you can determine what you get from being compassionate, it helps increase interest in building the practice. Checking out everyone else’s flaws is so easy; challenge yourself to see the good stuff. It is likely that your subtle change will act as the ripple needed to move someone else. Your charm offensive will elevate the situation. If it seems unnatural, start by working on yourself. Focusing on your own reflection and simply acknowledging your better angels refocuses your direction. It is easier to see those around us as more like us. Our glow lights them up.
Little acts
Bold changes often seem fake. Little level-ups integrate better into our psyches. Gradually increasing your compassionate demeanor will result in a more long-lasting good feeling. Imperceptible new actions crush the old expected tactics and take others by surprise. Surprise takes away the usual reaction and pauses the tactics. Follow your own plan: first, be nice to you. Second, be nice to others. Enjoy creating new messages to acknowledge goodness, pass by the chance to notice imperfection and watch the show.
Set your intention to be the improved you. Can you focus on creating a calmer, more compassionate world around you and your closest beings? Can you give everyone the benefit of the doubt as many times as necessary?
