Skip to content

When we practice generating compassion, we can expect to…

“When we practice generating compassion, we can expect to experience our fear of pain. Compassion practice is daring. It involves learning to relax and allow ourselves to move gently toward what scares us. The trick to doing this is to stay with emotional distress without tightening into aversion…” quote by Pema Chodron
Download Open image
“When we practice generating compassion, we can expect to experience our fear of pain. Compassion practice is daring. It involves learning to relax and allow ourselves to move gently toward what scares us. The trick to doing this is to stay with emotional distress without tightening into aversion, to let fear soften us rather than harden into resistance.”

Pema Chodron

About This Quote

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

Compassion practice confronts fear by staying present with distress, allowing it to soften rather than harden.

In simple terms: Facing fear with compassion eases pain.

Key Takeaway

Stay present with discomfort.

Themes

compassion fear mindfulness growth

Mood

calm reflective

Type

inspirational practical

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • meditation retreats
  • conflict resolution
  • personal growth
  • parenting

Key Concepts

emotional regulation non‑attachment radical acceptance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you gently stay with fear?
  • What does compassion feel like in pain?
A Different Perspective

May be difficult to sustain openness during intense distress.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Pema Chodron

Explore all 664 Pema Chodron quotes

More Aversion quotes

Browse all 266 Aversion quotes