The document reflects on the concept of compassion, emphasizing the shared suffering and connection among individuals. It highlights the primal roots of humanity and the importance of creating a peaceful environment for those in distress. The aim is to foster a sense of connection and renewal for those facing despair.

1. Compassion.

2. We
watch
and listen,

3. stand witness to the circumstances
that ravage other hearts

4. and our own are stretched
beyond the comfort of the familiar.

5. We respond,
our actions scripted
by the very word
we seek to live:

6. com-passion – “to suffer” “together”.

7. But more ancient roots
bind us to a deeper truth,

8. a primal connection,

9. the rhythmic pulse that takes us
back to our beginnings,

10. the womb out of which
life pushed us forth.

11. There,
for a time,
was oneness,
satiety,
untroubled truths.

12. May our
hearts
open
with
compassion,

13. create a womb of peace
for those whose lives are stark with terror,
riven with discord, bleak with despair

14. that they may
sense connection,

15. sort
through
troubled
truths,

16. and
find a
fullness
they had
lost.

17. And may life,
in due time,
push them forth once more

18. even as it opens its arms to receive them.

19. Fresh.
New.
Alive.