The Search For Enlightenment

Sometimes we become involved in other people’s problems, whether we want to be, or not. At times like this, Wisdom, Courage and Compassion are needed, but in a slightly different way than when we have problems of our own.

We need to have the Wisdom to step back from the problem, and look at it in a dispassionate way. The Courage to determine our feelings, from that detached viewpoint and the Compassion to offer help if required, knowing that our offer may well be rejected.

We also need the Courage to just be there, with an open heart and a calm mind. Too often,  people on the periphery feel the need to state their opinions, whether that helps the person dealing with the problem or not. These opinions may well be founded on sound principles and deeply held beliefs, but in themselves they are not help, they are mere opinions.

If you find yourself in such a situation, simply be prepared to wait to be asked for your help. Showing your ability to remain detached, objective and silent, with a truly open heart, may be all the help you can offer at that time.