Compassion and Pity, the difference
Pity is sympathetic sadness for another's suffering. Compassion is a moved, caring response that leans toward helping.
Each in a line
Compassion
Compassion is a moved, caring response to another's suffering. You register that they are hurting. An impulse rises to help, comfort, or at least be present. The chest opens and the body softens toward them rather than away.
Social family
Pity
Pity is sympathetic sadness for another's suffering. The chest carries a soft weight and the face softens. You want their suffering to end without entering it yourself. The feeling includes the asymmetry between your position and theirs.
Sadness family
Pleasantness and energy
Where each lives in the body
Compassion
Chest
Tightness or warmth
Face
Slight warmth
Stomach
A gentle stir
Arms
Subtle activation
Pity
Head
Lightness
Chest
A faint pull
Face
Slight warmth
How long they last
Duration has not been measured for these words.
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