Author Barbara Franken writes a lovely blog that inspires me every time. If you have any desire whatsoever to be a creative visionary, to help this world get to a better place, she has words of wisdom for you.
I was honored, then, when she asked me to be part of her guest author series on Compassion. Kudos to those of you who just naturally ooze compassion. That’s a gift. I was born, I’m sure, with the seeds of compassion but no adult gardener tended those in my younger years. The Universe provides though, right? Life experiences led me to discover my own brand of compassion. I wish I could say it was always pure. It’s not. Sometimes, my compassion barely boxes out the emotions coexisting with it–anger, disappointment, annoyance, grief. I used to think only pure compassion wrapped up with a big bow was acceptable. Mine tends to be like pretty candy without the box and bow. Still a gift, just not as shiny and impressive.
In the end, I’ve found, my muddled compassion works. It’s hard won. And oh so human. Head on over to Barbara’s blog for my story. And be sure to check out some of Barbara’s other posts. She always has something of note to share.
candidkay 
A powerful and beautifully written piece, K. Brava.
Thank you. The toughest one sometimes are, right? I know you know that.
Yes, I do, K.
I loved it! Your writing always touches my heart.
Thank you:). Glad this one touched you!
Kay, I can’t even begin to tell you how moved I am by your post. It brought tears to my eyes because there are so many things I can relate to and also because I admire your strength and determination to overcome adversity and pain. My mother did not love me, in fact, she went out of her way to be downright cruel. I thank my lucky stars every day that despite her best efforts to ruin me, I rose above it all and became the person I am today. You have provided me so much perspective and have inspired me more than I can say. This was beautiful. You are beautiful. I feel so blessed to have read this. xo
Oh, I am so sorry. To be completely left out of mother love at a young age sucks. I do feel my mother loved me–she just was damaged in that department and didn’t do the work. You SHOULD celebrate who you are because it sounds like it was hard-earned. I’m glad this post touched you–that was my intent. For it to resonate. Wishing you a beautiful week ahead . . .
Your story is so beautifully real and so many people I know had this same experience with their Mums. It’s a tough journey to heal from. Honestly, Wayne Dyer by the age of 12? You are so very special Kristine. Your boys have one amazing gorgeous Mum and don’t you ever forget it girlfriend. 👏🙏🏻👏
Thank you. I stumbled upon Wayne Dyer in the self-help aisle at age 12. There weren’t many of us pre-teens in that aisle back in the day:). I guess proof I’m an old soul, eh? As are you:). Thank you for the kind words!
A beautiful soul!! 💕🙏🏻
I think there is something special about compassion that is our own. It develops from experience, spiced by perspective. It ages in its own way, just as each one of us can grow to be deeper thinkers, wiser individuals, and more astute in understanding our inner truths. However we gain compassion, the beauty, virtue and most sincere value lies in the honesty and humility nestled at the core. You have all that — and more.
Thanks so much, Kathy. It’s true. I guess our own brand of homegrown compassion brings some mettle to it.
Heading over to Barbara’s blog.
Thanks, George! I am the worst about extra clicks but hopefully you’ll think this one is worth it.
It definitely was..:)
Kay, I will remember your imagery regarding compassion for a long time because it is so very real.
Thank you so much, Bernadette. I’ve been keeping you in my good thoughts–my COMPASSIONATE thoughts–and hoping you’ve been coping with what life has thrown your way in the past year. I appreciate you taking the time to read my post.
First sentence: Author Barbara Franken of ….? XYZ?
Hum. Take a look again, Sue. It’s coming up as a link for me now.
What other kind is there Kay, but the love and compassion that we find within these very conditional human constructs that we guide all around with our hearts full of fear.
Yet with a courage like no other, we do find the beauty hidden inside that shine all the more because of the mud and scars it is built on…love can be no other way ❤
It was a beautiful read over at Barbara's, thank you for sharing that courage ❤
Thanks, Mark. This one did take some courage. I’m not always keen on laying myself bare for others to see :-).
It takes great heart Kay, and yours is beating well ❤