Shaolin Virtue of Compassion

What is the Shaolin Virtue of Compassion?

The Shaolin Virtue of Compassion is about understanding how people suffer and how people behave. It is a powerful idea that requires a strong foundation in the Shaolin Virtue of Focus because one can only understand others as much as one understands the self. When you are compassionate, you develop the ability to help others more effectively. When you are not compassionate, you wallow in selfishness and fear which can cause great suffering to others.

How Will the Shaolin Virtue of Compassion Help Me?

By developing your Shaolin Virtue of Compassion:

• You will better understand how your actions, thoughts, and speech affects others
• You will make better decisions for the well being of those close to you
• You will make decisions and actions that are beneficial to society
• You will develop ‘worldly’ perspective
• You may be respected more by others and be perceived as a great leader (or potential)

Why is the Shaolin Virtue of Compassion Important?

If you do not develop your Shaolin Virtue of Compassion:

• You will not be able to become an effective leader
• You will not realize your social potential
• You will become selfish

How Do I Develop the Shaolin Virtue of Compassion?

• Strive to continuously improve your Shaolin Virtue of Focus
• Strive to continuously improve your Shaolin Virtue of Respect

Pitfalls of the Shaolin Virtue of Compassion

• Forcefully helping someone who does not want to be helped
• Forcefully helping someone you don’t understand
• Helping others when you are ‘not ready’ - i.e. have insecurities, poor control over emotions, is emotionally unstable
• Helping others with the intention of benefitting in return

What Happens When I Apply the Shaolin Virtue of Compassion?

As you develop your Shaolin Virtue of Compassion:

• You will be able to effectively resolve conflicts between other people
• You will be able to effectively offer help when you are able and willing
• You will be able to effectively provide assistance to people who want it