Adverse Quote by Sharon Salzberg
“Compassion allows us to use our own pain and the pain of others as a vehicle for connection. This is a delicate and profound path. We may be adverse to seeing our own suffering because it tends to ignite a blaze of self-blame and regret. And we may be adverse to seeing suffering in others because we find it unbearable or distasteful, or we find it threatening to our own happiness. All of these possible reactions to the suffering in the word make us want to turn away from life.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Power of Compassion, Sharon Salzberg, 2017
Compassion transforms personal and observed pain into a bridge for deeper human connection, despite natural aversion to suffering.
In simple terms: Turning pain into connection.
Key Takeaway
Embrace suffering to connect.
Themes
compassion
connection
empathy
healing
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- support groups
- personal reflection
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
mindfulness
psychology
interpersonal growth
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you stay present with your own suffering?
- What practices help you view others’ pain without judgment?
A Different Perspective
It can be hard to stay open when pain feels overwhelming.
