Compassion vs. Enabling

Sometimes we do little things to improve the lives of those we love. We bring them a pillow or make them a special dinner.

When these little helpful acts become default behaviors, and the other person is deprived of the opportunity to take care of their own life and needs, what was a loving gesture becomes enabling.

Helping those that are suffering comes from a place of compassion, however, compassionate acts can sometimes lead to enabling and potential long-term negative effects. Before offering help to someone, ask yourself what the truly compassionate gesture is?

Remember that all enabling is compassion, but not all compassion is enabling.