It was my dear friend, Equus, who planted the seed of compassion in my heart. She learned it from her Sri Lankin friend. And like you it took time to root and grow. I share it here with others just like she shared it with me. It's my way of paying it forward. I always admired Equus and I miss her so.
I've come to realize that everyone's lives are connected. They overlap and weave in and out out each other like threads in a blanket and everything we do and everything we say has an impact on others. Every act of kindness matters.