Karen Armstrong gives us a helpful test about how to become more
compassionate. It is an application of the golden rule about loving one anotherin the way of Jesus.
We are encouraged to look into our own hearts and be clear about what
gives us pain, then, under no circumstances, do that to anyone else. Imagine
how beautiful our world would be if we all lived like that!
A pivotal moment for Karen, who is now a wonderful scholar of world
religions, came when she was young and, with others of her religious community,
went to visit their dying leader.
Looking back, Karen could see how difficult she might have seemed to
some – a bit angular, somewhat insecure. As they were about to leave, the dying
leader asked Karen to stay.
Alone, she said powerful words of encouragement: “Some might find you
difficult. But I want to say, I’ve always found you very helpful. And I think
you will make a significant contribution, as time goes by.”
For the young Karen, it was important to have this
praise and encouragement from one she respected. In the years after, she often
remembered that moment, especially at difficult times.
In trying to lead a more compassionate life, it’s often
the little things that give us our best opportunity to contribute: a word of
encouragement here, a smile there.
Recently, on a holiday, I spent some time recalling
the people and moments of grace during my life. I remembered gratefully those
who had given a word or gesture of encouragement at a time of vulnerability.
Getting older one is simultaneously more resilient
and more vulnerable. More resilient because of a more realistic view of human
frailty but also more vulnerable because of life’s various woundings.
All of this reflection makes more sense of Karen’s
definition of compassion as a way of life.
If enough of us practise this we can withstand the
Trump-driven politics that target minorities and shape negative stereotypes so
as to fan fear and win political power.
I have recently seen the damage this is doing,
especially in communities with an African background. When senior political
leaders give “legitimacy” to negative stereotypes it releases venomous words
and actions in our public places. Youngsters who need their word of
encouragement and their people of grace instead face abuse.
The most important test for anyone who seeks to be
a leader is this: Are they in touch with what causes them pain? Do they have
the integrity and will to ensure that, under no circumstances, will they do to
anyone else what causes them pain?
That is the test of compassionate leadership. We
need a lot more of it!
Philip Huggins is a
bishop in the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne.
