What really makes us human

What is the basic component that makes us human?  What separates us (in fact it does not separate us, but brings us closer to Nature) from what we consider species that are not 'homo sapien'?

To my humble observations, what makes us 'human' is our compassion for others; humans and others outside our own species alike.  It has been argued that in early man, we gathered together simply for protection, and to survive.   But what drives this?   One may seek protection, but what makes 1 person more 'protective' than another?  What does that 'protection' really mean?  Does the one 'giving' protection, do it for their own 'protective' gain - what is their initiative to be a protector?

Compassion is obvious in every form of life outside the 'human' realm;   Care given to the newly born, unconscious concern for the pack/mates.  Concern for elderly (Elephants will stand for hours, even days it's been documented, around a member who has passed of old age), and even peers (most species of apes and gorillas 'groom' each other in a most expressive form of care that we humans can readily understand.)   Dogs and Cats care for their youth, and eventually their pack members.   Why??

This is Compassion.  It exists in all beings, all creatures to one level or another.  Concern for the well-being of others.    Caring for another to enhance their well-being.  Protection, for another's longevity.   Providing nourishment for another, this is all compassion.   It is a deeply rooted part of all organic life on this planet.  It is the one component that does unite us all in this Oneness existence.  Compassion and Concern for others - for all, for One.

How can we propagate Compassion even more?  Certainly compassion exists in this world - however it oddly finds itself at the bottom of the list when governments meet, companies compete, and political parties speak.  

We can propagate Compassion, by being the example; Many will say (and quote this line) ' an eye for an eye'.   This thinking lacks compassion.  however the parable 'do unto others as you would have them do unto you', this thought generates compassion and concern in the individual, allowing for the growth of compassion towards others.

How do we begin to be more compassionate in our lifes to others, to form a foundation of compassion for daily life?   This begins with truthful Mindfulness of yourself, your life, your goals, your desires.  Mindfulness is essential.  What does this mean?

Mindfulness is the ever present awareness of self and also realization of lack of self through, the first breath of waking, to the last breath before sleep.

It is the awareness of everything around you, and at the same time, lack of self-concern while being completely Mindful and aware of all that is around you..

This is not something done overnight - for some it can take a lifetime, others, intense study and practicing instills this.  For others (myself included) it is a daily ritual of remembering 'to' be Mindful of every thing, every being, every insect, animal, plant that I see.  Every cloud - noticing the blueness of the sky!  Noticing sadness in others around me - taking an active role to use this Mindfulness to assist where I may.

Complete mindfulness, is compassionate living.

Compassion, 'is' what makes us Human.

Namaste,