Insight Hour with Joseph Goldstein

Ep. 246 – Compassionate Responsiveness, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 43

16 snips
Jun 6, 2025
Discover the intricate dynamics of compassion and cruelty as Joseph Goldstein discusses their profound effects on both personal and global scales. Explore how subtle cruelty can remain unnoticed within us and the importance of keeping our hearts open amidst suffering. Goldstein highlights the transformative power of empathy as a foundation for compassionate action. Through inspiring examples of selflessness, he encourages cultivating compassion as a practice, emphasizing its role in emotional wellness and the interconnectedness of all human experiences.
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INSIGHT

Cruelty vs Compassion Clarity

  • Cruelty is clearly unskillful and causes harm and suffering in both global and personal contexts.
  • Compassion is the antidote, expressing a deep wish to alleviate suffering and overcome indifference.
ADVICE

Observe Response to Suffering

  • Watch your mind's response to suffering, noticing if you open to it or avoid it.
  • Practice welcoming pain and distress to cultivate compassionate responsiveness.
ANECDOTE

Openness Sparks Compassionate Action

  • Joseph Goldstein noticed his varying reactions to suffering dogs in India, from avoidance to openness.
  • Opening to suffering increased his motivation to act compassionately, like offering food.
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