Why Compassion First? Why is my motto “Compassion First?’ Why is compassion so important, especially now? This week with the passing of George HW Bush is the perfect time to reflect on those questions.
Watching the motorcade drive President George H.W. Bush’s casket to lie in State at the Capital in Washington DC. It was quite a crowd of people…Supreme Court Justices, members of the Senate and House, both parties, standing side by side, at least acting like they get along. A moment that demonstrates the civility and beauty that is possible in this Country of ours. If only that could be done daily and not just when they is a national loss or tragedy.
I heard a quote from our 41st at his inauguration, where he said he wanted a kinder and gentler America….imagine that…a kinder and gentler America…what does that mean…Compassion first. It means we expect the best from each other and not the worst. It means we give people the benefit of the doubt and look for the basic goodness in each of us. It means we look for similarities and common ground between us, and not grounds for division. It means treating people with respect and kindness whether we agree with them or not.
George HW Bush and I did not agree on much politically but I am as touched and moved by his passing as anyone…and I will miss him and his graceful leadership of kindness and compassion.
Kai Raines 