Angels amoung us.... conference talk in action

The other day walking home from class alongside my friend Judy. She whispers to me... "that girl is crying". I wasn't sure if culturally that was intrusive to look, approach, comfort, so I did nothing, but kept on walking. However, Judy wrapped her around around her and asked "why are you crying". I kept walking, thinking she would not understand English, but she did. When I finally allowed myself to be compassionate I learned that this 19 year old girl had was lonesome for her mother who had died the month previous. Yes, I know feel like a heel for being afraid of being compassionate. We walked, talked, hugged and shared our love until it was time to part. The girl by then had adopted two grandmotherly substitutes and dried her tears. Yes, love and compassion are international attributes... So when I tell you my heart is stretched I mean it literally. Yes we look different, yes we attract some attention, but we are treated very kindly and with respect. I have new respect and enlarging feelings for my Chinese brothers and sisters.