That is the question behind research from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and a new study suggests that as little as two weeks of compassion meditation training – intentionally cultivating positive wishes to understand and relieve the suffering of others – may reduce the distress a person feels when witnessing another’s suffering. It may also improve their ability and likelihood to respond with compassion.
It can be distressing to witness the pain of family, friends or even strangers going through a hard time. But what if, just like strengthening a muscle or learning a new hobby, we could train ourselves to be more compassionate and calm in the face of others’ suffering?
That is the question behind research from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and a new study suggests that as little as two weeks of compassion meditation training – intentionally cultivating positive wishes to understand and relieve the suffering of others – may reduce the distress a person feels when witnessing another’s suffering. It may also improve their ability and likelihood to respond with compassion.
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Their love was incontestable. Our home was a nurturing environment filled with undying support. I was cared for and protected by two loving parents who taught me so many life lessons that have brought me to where I am today. I never felt neglected or deprived. They were firm but not harsh. I learned so many life lessons like discipline, the need for educational development, respect for myself, family, other people, my community, and God’s universe. I was also taught the importance of a strong work ethic, self-sufficiency, trustworthiness, honesty, and about being a woman of good character. These qualities and more influenced me to become the woman I feel God planned for me to be. And he’s not done with me yet!
I think God wants me to share some of the compassion with others that was given to me. My great-uncle and aunt transitioned years ago, but the compassion and love they poured into my life live in me today. It has enabled a loving relationship with my 86 years old birth mother, and 11 loving brothers and sisters whom I wouldn’t trade for the world. God gave us each other and hope for our future generations. Compassion conquers adversity! Angela Stinson retired from Milwaukee Public Schools where she taught 40 years, and also worked 20 years in the U.S. Army National Guard. Lord, the psalmist asked, how long O Lord, How long will Thou hide Thyself from me? Today, God, there are terrible disasters Which take the lives of many people. It is hard to recognize Your hand in such a tragedy, But I pray that through such tribulations, many people can come to a deepened relationship with You, even a new relationship with You, as we recognize the frailty of our physical existence and the lack of control we have over it. Perhaps You use these opportunities to knock at the hearts of those affected by these calamities, and I pray they let You in. No matter what tribulations arise in this life, if we have You dwelling in our hearts, we are sure to overcome. In Christ’s Name. Amen —Reverend Chestina Mitchell Archibald “In The Wake of Tragedy” Find Hope in the Storm When You Feel You’re in the Storm Mark 4:39-40 | Isaiah 41:10 | John 16:33 No matter what swirls around us, God promises to be our perfect peace. He assures us he is constantly with us, strengthening and supporting us. Pray that God will help you to keep your eyes and focus on him, not on the circumstances surrounding you. Ask him to help you grow in your trust, believing he is faithful to see us through. Write: In your journal, think of the top five or so things in your life right now that are causing you worry, fear, or anxiety. Give those things over to God now in prayer. Ask him to relieve your fears and help you remember his truth. Invite the Holy Spirit to begin to calm your soul by replacing the fear with the words of truth you just read. Write down the promises from the passages in Mark, Isaiah, and John. When fear begins to creep in, re-read these promises and thank God for his steadfast love.
Unfortunately, too many older adults are hungry, alone, and desperate to maintain the independence of staying in their homes. For these people, Meals on Wheels (MOW) is a godsend toward satisfying that goal. Many housebound seniors are challenged by chronic illnesses and limited mobility. Consequently, preparing meals is a daunting chore. Drivers for MOW deliver 1,400 nutritious meals to these homes throughout the county daily. Individuals with disabilities that make normal activities harder, regardless of age, are also eligible for this service. Bekki Schmitt, Information and Outreach Coordinator for the Milwaukee County Department on Aging, administrator for MOW says, “We know that this need will continue to increase with the growing senior population. Aging Outreach conducted to determine the number of potential candidates in Wisconsin needing support services revealed that — 320,958 seniors are isolated and live alone; 142,379 are threatened by hunger, and 313,406 seniors live near poverty. Older adults who are physically able can enjoy lunch at the following senior centers —Clinton Rose, Kelly, McGovern Park, Washington Park, and Wilson Park in Milwaukee County. The suggested donations a hot meals is $3.00. 1220 W. Vliet Street, Suite 300 | Milwaukee WI 53205 | Phone: 414.289.6874 | Toll-Free 1-866-229-9695.
Awais H. Siddique, MD believes that many women suffering from chronic uterus pain are often misdiagnosed and subjected to needless hysterectomies. When, in fact, heir distress is caused by pelvic congestion syndrome resulting from problems with the veins in the pelvic area.
The Franklin Institute, a science museum in Philadelphia, reports that the average adult body contains approximately 100,000 miles of blood vessels. |
WriterLinda J. Concroft Archives
May 2021
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