Compassion does not mean allowing ourselves to be hurt repeatedly. We can wish others well while keeping appropriate boundaries and avoiding the creation of more suffering.
Compassion Does Not Mean Accepting Everything
Politely refusing what is wrong can both protect ourselves and avoid supporting behavior that harms people.
Healthy Boundaries Can Protect a Relationship
When we communicate boundaries clearly and without anger, a relationship may continue without requiring either person to live in unnecessary suffering.
A Dhamma Perspective
Compassion is the wish for others to be well, but wise compassion does not encourage causes of harm. Mindfulness helps us distinguish compassion from giving in without limits.
What You Can Do Today
- Identify what you can and cannot accept.
- Communicate your boundaries calmly and clearly.
- Help where you can without creating more problems.
One Good Thing Today
Caring for yourself mindfully is not selfish when it is done without anger or ill will toward anyone.
Come Back Tomorrow
Tomorrow, practice compassion toward yourself and others while keeping the boundaries that help your heart remain with goodness.
