March 3
Compassion
eople whose inner
vision has been cleansed by the exercise of charity toward their neighbor
can delight in the contemplation of truth in itself, for it is love of
truth which makes them take upon themselves the misfortunes of others.
But can people find the truth in their neighbor if they refuse to support
their brothers and sisters in this way—if on the contrary they either scoff
at their tears or disparage their joys, being insensitive to all feelings
but their own? There is a popular saying which well suits them: A healthy
person cannot feel the pains of sickness, nor can one who is well-fed feel
the pangs of hunger. The more familiar we are with sickness or hunger,
the greater will be our compassion for others who are sick or hungry.
Just as pure truth can only be seen by the pure in heart, so the sufferings
of our fellow men and women are more truly felt by hearts that know suffering
themselves. However, we cannot sympathize with the wretchedness of others
until we first recognize our own. Then we shall understand the feelings
of others by what we personally feel, and know how to come to their help.
Such was the example shown by our Savior, who desired to suffer himself
in order that he might learn to feel compassion, and to be afflicted in
order that he might learn how to show mercy.
From John E. Rotelle, O.S.A., Tradition Day by Day: Readings from
Church Writers. Augustinian Press. Villanova, PA, 1994.
HTML text prepared by David P. Steelman
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