One article in particular upset me enough to restart this blog which has lain dormant for over 6 months. It was about the asylum seeker issue, which is in the news a lot at the moment because of recent events on Manus Island. The journalist (Janet Albrectsen), described those who think that the current bipartisan policy to 'stop the boats' using off-shore detention is inhumane and morally wrong, as 'compassion junkies', amongst other not so flattering terms.
I've never heard it put quite like that before. Since when has compassion - feeling pity or sympathy for another human - been something to be scorned and shunned? Likened to a toxic substance? It reminds me of the term 'bleeding heart', which I've never understood as an insult.
Personally, I don't think I am addicted to compassion (the blog title was just to reel you in:). I like comfort and protecting 'my own' as much as the next person, and would rather watch MKR than SBS news. But I do value compassion and kindness and want to exercise to my empathy 'muscles' as much as possible in this crazy, broken world. I want to encourage my children, friends and even fellow Australians to do likewise. Otherwise, I'm fearful of where our society is headed.
It's not just about the asylum seekers. It's about looking outside of your own little circle and feeling for somebody who is different to you, possibly who is a lot worse off than you. If caring about someone else makes me a 'compasion junkie', then I'll wear that badge with pride.
