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When the suffering of another creature causes you to feel…

“When the suffering of another creature causes you to feel pain, do not submit to the initial desire to flee from the suffering one, but on the contrary, come closer, as close as you can to her who suffers, and try to help her.” quote by Leo Tolstoy
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“When the suffering of another creature causes you to feel pain, do not submit to the initial desire to flee from the suffering one, but on the contrary, come closer, as close as you can to her who suffers, and try to help her.”

Leo Tolstoy

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Compassion requires confronting suffering directly rather than avoiding it.

In simple terms: Face others' pain with empathy, not avoidance.

Key Takeaway

Approach suffering with compassion.

Themes

compassion empathy ethics courage

Mood

empathetic determined

Type

ethical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • conflict resolution
  • healthcare
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

moral philosophy psychology spirituality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What holds you back from helping those in pain?
  • How can you protect yourself while being compassionate?
A Different Perspective

May be overwhelming without self-care.

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