Sacred Stories | Compassion in Action
“As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
I spent some time with our memory care residents as they sat on the patio and shared past experiences and memories. At a table of several men, the conversation suddenly slowed. One of the men, a resident who was new to the community, had lost his train of thought.
“I’m sorry, I can’t seem to get the right answer, I’m dealing with memory loss,” he explained to the other men. They began to encourage him, saying, “You know it’s all right,” “We don’t mind at all,” and “Take your time.” I was so moved to hear these residents comforting the newcomer.
The simple act of acknowledging human frailty extends a sense of belonging to those who could otherwise feel left out. This was a living example of our value of compassion, being in solidarity with the joys and sorrows of others. I treasure the experience.
Submitted by Holly Caudill
Questions for Reflection
Think of a time when someone treated you with compassion. How did that make you feel and how might you do the same for someone else?
What are ways that you experience a sense of connection and belonging? How can you be better at helping those around you feel included?
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About Sacred Stories
As CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of
the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.
Sacred Stories convey ways our mission is being lived out by the gifted people in our ministry. We invite you to
use these stories for inspiration, as a meeting reflection, or to encourage discussion with your team.
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