Compassion

What comes first, compassion or the understanding that we are one?  Does this understanding create compassion?  Like a surfer riding a wave greater than he, knowing the power of the ocean.  Respecting the oceans power they ride in unity.  When the surfer feels the full force of the each break as he makes his way to the desired place to catch a new wave, only through the physical pain is he then awakened to the wonder and awe that is a greater power.

Does the physical pain need to be?  Can one have the true understanding by purely observing or hearing of its power?  Possibly, but other struggles will help to reach such conclusions.  No life is without struggle.  Even the most privilaged of lives find pain and insecurities.  Many times the triumph from those struggles is what creates enlightenment and new understandings.  Even the Buddha had struggles, Jesus had struggles, all religous leaders and wise ones had struggles.  From those teachers we can take learn, but it is up to us to make the daily choices.  We take their lead not to follow but to lead.  Lead ourselves and others to a life awakened .  To a life of understanding, filled with loving compassion.  Living with eyes open, ears that not only hear but truly listen.  Living with hands that take the time to touch and to feel.  A nose that takes in the wonderful scents that fill the air.  Tasting the sweet, savory, bitter, salty, and even the sour. 

How can we connect with others and the world around us if we are disconnected to our own senses?  Awareness, mindfulness, consciousness, will bring us to others, the world, and ourselves.  The only true moment is this moment.  Won't you enjoy it with me?