In his book, Mercy Beyond Measure, Kurt Salierno defines compassion as “being moved by someone else’s plight to the point of taking action.”  (p. 121)

In the months that I’ve been volunteering at The Gateway Center, I’ve observed this attitude from the director, Dale Peterson.  Dale takes time to look people in the eye when they talk, and to listen to what they say.  I’ve heard Dale ask about families and jobs and express concern over difficulties.  I’ve seen Dale take people to get mattresses or refrigerators.  He is a good model of compassion.

Do you know of someone who needs you to take action as their advocate?  Maybe they just had surgery; could you take a meal?  Maybe their car broke down; could you help with a ride?  Being compassionate may take you out of your comfort zone.  But if you take the risk to help your neighbor, then you will experience an outpouring of compassion that will bless you as well!

Sally