October Theme
Keruna (Compassion)

We have evolved as humans due in no small part to our ability to support and connect emotionally with each other. Our nervous system is hard wired to find safe spaces and form communities.

The word “compassion” has Latin roots that mean “suffer together” or bearing the misfortunes of life together. The word implies that  while our life paths may be unique, we walk in community, and not in isolation. This is how we thrive as a species.

Anthropologist Margaret Mead has been attributed to the statement that the first sign of civilization is not a tool or a clay bowl, but a healed femur. It indicated that someone had cared for the injured in the wilderness — a risky endeavor in a savagely competitive environment. In the animal kingdon, if you break your leg, you risk death. 

Karuna is empathy, but also a fundamental spiritual practice backed by action to help alleviate the suffering of others. 

How will you incorporate this practice into everyday life?