Stiff Upper Lip

This week’s devotional comes from Linsey Wildsmith, (Head of Christian Mission) as she shares her thoughts about what our value COMPASSION means to her.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32

I always have to fight feeling awkward when people show me compassion. The remnants of my father’s ‘stiff upper lip’ approach to life are still there, buried beneath the work in progress of my character, and I often have to work hard at letting others show me kindness when I’m having a tough day. You may relate to that as well.

I’m learning though, that compassion is more than feeling sorry for someone. It’s about stepping into their shoes and doing something to help. It’s listening without judgment, offering practical support, and showing kindness even when it’s hard.

I see compassion at YMCA when staff take time to listen to a young person’s story, when they go the extra mile to make someone feel safe, or when they support a colleague who’s struggling. These moments matter. They remind people they’re not alone – and they happen every single day in this organisation because our staff are brilliant people.

Jesus showed radical compassion. He cared for the broken and the outcast. He was intentionally kind to those whom society snubbed. That inspires me to look beyond myself and choose empathy. Even if faith isn’t your thing, compassion is something we can all practice, and it makes our workplace and our world better.

Point to ponder:
What’s one way you can show compassion to someone in your role today?