Empaths can sometimes pick up too much emotion which may not even apply to themselves, and thus they can end up feeling like they are that emotion. Through compassion one can start to accept those emotions we absorb.

The most important lesson humans learn in life, is that of true compassion. This is something that is sometimes innate and natural for some souls, but often it is for most people a very difficult life lesson. It often is earned and learned through relationships, and sometimes through our losses and gains in our own lives.

If you are intrinsically a sensitive, you are probably quite aware of your own inadequacies. You may be a perfectionist, because you dislike hurting people as you can feel their hurt. Some people may avoid or sabotage relationships, preferring to be loners. Others may seek out relationships as a way to feel better. Yet the most important discipline in a sensitive lies in being compassionate with the self and with others.

Compassion for the self entails being able to look deep within, and to be able to accept one's shortcomings. Often the perfectionist looks at the bigger picture in sometimes a negative way by always comparing themselves to others and striving for more perfection. Other people may see life in black and white, as all or nothing, thus facing their fears daily if they do not feel they have met the needs of the people they love. Some people will become overtly strict or defensive with their partners, because they are too hard on themselves.

As you can see, compassion is truly about accepting the self. Only through accepting the Self as it is can we enjoy our lives. Through accepting our limitations and griefs, our lamentations and reservations, we can aspire to transcend our own walls. When we do this, a world opens up. A world where people are kind and sensitive like you and .in compassion for the self, we begin to see others in a beautiful new way, and true peace will exist for you.

Copyright Carmen Miro 2008