I have just had the privilege of reading James Kirby’s incredible book CHOOSE COMPASSION. I would have to say that his research on this subject is one of the most engaging and analytical I have ever experienced. Kirby has taken the simple word of compassion and expanded it into an enriched journey of gold nuggets and hidden jewels within the human psyche. Freud would have been very proud of the extraordinary studies, statistics and surveys that are the heartbeat of this book. CHOOSE COMPASSION is a deep and meaningful enquiry into the depths of the human spirit, warts and all. It is at times a raw yet very real expose of humanity with all its failings combined with the hope of a rainbow and ultimate healing.
Kirby tells us right from the start that compassion is all about suffering which is distinctly different to empathy, sympathy and kindness. The common thread throughout the book is that human beings, unlike animals, always have the freedom to choose in every given situation what we are being challenged with. We may not always feel comfortable with our possibilities regarding being a more compassionate person but this means when it comes to choosing compassion there is always a choice of attitude and action.
This dynamic book contains some very powerful exercises that when practised consistently can transform our lives. They are based on creating positive intentions when it comes to being a more mindful and compassionate person. There is a smorgasbord of examples throughout the book where the reader is given the opportunity to live a happier and more fulfilled life through the lens of self compassion and compassion for our community and society.
CHOOSE COMPASSION is overflowing in both the theoretical and practical sense of how to live a more courageous and wiser life. But the conundrum lies in the fact that on one hand our choices can appear to be quite simple but when put to the test can prove to be complex and confusing for us as human beings. Dr. Kirby reminds us that “humans are walking talking contradictions”.
I believe the goal of this mini masterpiece is for us a to become aware of how we can develop our skills to achieve living a more compassionate life. I love the saying that we are all striving to be the best version of ourself through being compassionate not only for ourselves but the entire world. I guarantee that your life will never be the same after reading Dr. Kirby’s book. The landscape of your life will be one of hope and optimism with insights of what it takes to face your fears of the unknown and embrace compassion. I challenge you to open that door and allow the love and wisdom to flow.
