Good people are compassionate. Sympathy naturally arises from those who are moral, principled, and who live by the golden rule. However, acts of compassion can sometimes be ineffective—or even counterproductive—causing more harm than good. So, what can a thoughtful, compassionate person do? I suggest taking a few moments to reflect on the principles, priorities, and boundaries of your compassion. Consider writing them down in the form of a personal compassion manifesto. Your manifesto should be a living document, evolving as your empathy deepens, your resources expand, and you learn from experience. Its purpose isn’t to limit your generosity but to guide it in ways that are thoughtful, effective, and genuinely helpful.
Not Good Enough
November 10, 2025
