Skip to content

Being real Quote by Pema Chodron

“Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.” quote by Pema Chodron
Download Open image
“Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.”

Pema Chodron

About This Quote

Source Book: No Time to Lose, Pema Chodron, 2005

Compassion is an equal partnership, requiring self‑knowledge of one's own darkness to truly be present with others' suffering.

In simple terms: Compassion needs self‑awareness and equality.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate self‑awareness to share compassion.

Themes

compassion equality self‑knowledge

Mood

empathetic reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • conflict resolution
  • community building
  • peer support

Key Concepts

mindfulness shared humanity presence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you safely explore your own darkness?
  • What practices help you see others as equals?
A Different Perspective

It can be hard to confront one's own darkness without guidance.

2.1 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Pema Chodron

Explore all 664 Pema Chodron quotes

More Being real quotes

Browse all 1,607 Being real quotes