Stoic Thought on Compassion

Louis Pasteur once said, “One does not ask of one who suffers: What is your country and what is your religion? One merely says: You suffer, that is enough for me. You belong to me, and I shall help you.” These words beautifully capture the essence of compassion and the Stoic philosophy.

Imagine encountering someone who is going through a challenging time, regardless of their nationality or religious beliefs. Rather than focusing on their background, a Stoic perspective reminds us to prioritize their suffering and extend a helping hand. Here are a few examples that illustrate the power of this mindset:

1. Providing Aid to a Stranger: Let’s say you witness a person experiencing a medical emergency in a public space. Instead of hesitating or questioning their nationality or religion, you immediately step forward to offer assistance. At that moment, their suffering becomes enough for you to act, reflecting the Stoic ideal of empathy without conditions.

2. Supporting a Friend in Distress: A close friend confides in you about their personal struggles. The Stoic approach encourages you to set aside any differences in background or beliefs and simply offer your support. You listen attentively, offer kind words, and help them find practical solutions. By doing so, you show that their suffering is enough to motivate you to help, regardless of any…