Compassion, Mindfulness, Empathy, Sympathy, Kindness: Difference?

Courtesy of Malcolm Lightbody @ Unsplash

In attempting to grasp the nuances of how these words differ, it’s important to note that this is not an exercise in language, for there are some of us for whom English is one of several languages we speak, and the meaning of any one word, in any one language, is inextricably entwined in the rich tapestry of our multiple cultural, ethnic, national, religious identities.

Instead, this is an invitation to sense a deeper truth that transcends any language. It’s a bit like love. When recalling moments of love, you may recall struggling to find words that truly describes what’s going on inside you. The struggle though in no way obviates the physical sensation that was absolutely real, completely all-consuming, and stubbornly unforgettable, i.e. your body feels, and recognises, the honesty of that experience, that moment.

With that said, let’s begin.

Different perspectives of compassion

Courtesy of Malcolm Lightbody @ Unsplash

1. The etymology of the English word “compassion” is comprised of “com” derived from the Latin root of “cum” (with) + “passion” derivative of “pati” which, being a word of uncertain origin, is…