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Compassion Quote by Dalai Lama

“When a person is in a miserable situation, then, yes, it is difficult to develop genuine compassion toward others. That's why I find it difficult to say to poor people, "Please have compassion toward millionaires." That's not easy.” quote by Dalai Lama
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“When a person is in a miserable situation, then, yes, it is difficult to develop genuine compassion toward others. That's why I find it difficult to say to poor people, "Please have compassion toward millionaires." That's not easy.”

Dalai Lama

About This Quote

Source Speech: Compassion Lecture, Dalai Lama, 2012

Compassion is hard to feel for those in distress when one is also suffering; it’s difficult to ask the poor to empathize with the wealthy.

In simple terms: Compassion is challenging when both sides suffer.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate empathy despite personal hardship.

Themes

compassion poverty empathy

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • social work
  • personal reflection
  • community outreach

Key Concepts

Moral psychology social inequality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What barriers prevent true empathy?
  • How can we bridge compassion across economic divides?
A Different Perspective

Compassion may be limited by personal bias or lack of understanding.

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