Global compassion movement reaching millions worldwide

Left: Guest Speaker Babalwa Ngcongolo:

Karen Armstrong, the founder of the Charter for Compassion, a document written in 2009 urges the peoples and religions of the world to embrace the core value of compassion. The charter is available in more than 30 languages and has been endorsed by more than two million individuals.

Compassion defined as action rather than mere feeling

“Compassion is a principal of action, rooted in empathy and a commitment to alleviating suffering, not just as a feeling”. This quote by Karen, encompassed the message that Babalwa shared with us. Whilst our goals to address compassion were sincere, often they were lofty – not understanding one another. We needed to step out of our space of privilege – the world was not a perfect space – we needed to “open the door” to each other. How we practice seeing each other – to keep the door open, listen to the trauma and understand the pain, with compassion.

Interfaith youth initiative to promote religious diversity and understanding

Babalwa shared information on her role in the Cape Town Interfaith Initiative for Youth whose purpose it is to celebrate and share the richness of the religious and spiritual diversity in Cape Town, and to promote community interfaith understanding, harmony and co-operation, through both an awareness of universal spirituality and an honoring of the dignity of difference.

The Charter of Compassion advocates for justice, equality and Golden Rule principles

The Charter underscores the importance of justice and equality for all. It advocates for fairness, human rights, and the elimination of discrimination and oppression. Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, is a foundational principle of compassion. The Golden Rule, which is the principle of treating others as one would like to be treated, aligns closely with the Charter’s mission and values. The Charter encourages individuals and communities to embrace the Golden Rule as a guiding principle for personal behavior, relationships, and decision-making.

Heartfelt thanks expressed for moving and thought-provoking address

James communicated heart-felt thanks to Babalwa on behalf of the RC Waterfront for a sincere, moving, thought provoking address.