Compassion is a verb...

"Compassion: having a sense of deep sympathy and the heartfelt feelings of sorrow for someone hurting physically, mentally or emotionally. An unselfish need to reach out to help relieve the unfortunate misery of a person in need. The feeling of regret and pity showing a kind loving attitude."

Today at work I was chatting with my friend Andy about his new tattoo. And the conversation took a direction in which moved me deeply. As you can see below, this is my friend Andy ☺

Andy works in our kitting department and will also be on the road this year with my husband attending Tattered Angels retail shows. Andy is such a fun loving guy, it is no wonder that so many of mine and James fond work stories involve him.

A few weeks ago, Andy came into work with his brand new tattoo that wrapped around his right bicep and tricep. Now I trust my friend, and know that this tattoo had to mean something special. Although I have to admit...I had no idea what the words nor what language they were in ☺


At first, Andy told me that it was the word "Compassion" in a lot of different languages. And I thought, "Wow, that's cool" and thought of how awesome it is that Andy would choose a word like Compassion to decorate his body.


Today I had the opportunity to have Andy tell me the story of his tattoo. He referenced his tattoo to a Mens retreat that he had attended a few years back in which the speaker spoke of a bible verse (MATTHEW 9:36). This verse is discussed how Jesus is filled with compassion for the people as they were harassed, distressed, dejected and helpless (Amplified version). The meaning of compassion (greek-splagchnizomai) in this story is having the strongest feeling possible for someone deep down inside.

I love the definition that I found above that speaks of compassion as being the deepest feeling for someone with the result of needing to assist.

If there is one word that I would want to describe myself and my family it would be compassion. I feel there is no greater word that could describe a love so deep for humanity that it would literally move you to action. Feeling so strongly about something or someone that deep down inside of you is moved with this calling.

We Need This...

This verb that is completely selfless that altogether benefits the giver in absolutely no way is something that this world is hungry for. We need to look at each other in a new light. Seeking not what you can gain from the person next to you, yet openly give an outpouring love and respect with no expectations.

With Easter and Autism Awareness Month right around the corner, my heart is full of emotion and happiness. After today even more so than before, I want to share this feeling that literally resonates through me into my life and family.

So thanks to my friend Andy... for with his little story, it filled my heart. I can only hope that my heart is moved into action in some way, that I can share this feeling in action and help.

Like I said, compassion is a verb... it is meant to take action. And I can only hope I find a way to do so.

~Liz