Learning the importance of compassion from the Dalai Lama

How we learned about compassion
In hearing the Dalai Lama speak so warmly of his parents and his childhood, it got us thinking about our own family. Through our parents' actions, conversations and challenges, we learned about the importance of caring and compassion in our world.

When we had birthday parties, Mom encouraged us to invite kids who were often excluded and asked us how we would feel in their place. If we recounted to Dad the story of a bully at school, not only did he ask who the bully and victim were, he also wanted to know what we did about the incident.

These may seem like small actions that wouldn't extend much beyond the limits of our schoolyard. But they are the kind of things that get you thinking. How would I feel if I wasn't invited to a birthday party? How would I feel if I was the one being bullied?

What can I do to make sure no one feels like that?

A call to action
Even though our society puts a lot of emphasis on our academic, athletic and artistic abilities, compassion is of equal importance. If your child can look at another person and empathize with their situation, this is truly a gift that should be nurtured.

"Now peace means when there is possibility of conflict or violence, using our common sense of compassion," said the Dalai Lama to his captivated audience. "So therefore the twenty-first century should be the century of peace. That should be our aim."

While this may seem like a daunting call to action, by planting the seeds of compassion in our children, we can nurture them to empathize and seek harmony in our global community.

It's just up to us to lead by example.

Tips for parents:
1. Lead by example
Be a good compassionate role model for your children. Compassion begets compassion. Don't be afraid to show it at every opportunity.

2. Every contribution counts
Enlist your children to do chores around the house and let them know how much their help means to you.

3. Encourage conversation
Talk to your kids about the highlights and lowlights of the day. Then come up with ways that they can take action.

How have you helped teach your kids about compassion? Tell other readers about it in our forums.

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