Compassion

The definition of compassion is...

" a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering."

The word "compassion" has been a buzz word in my life lately. The conversation is always about my lack of it and that's got me thinking. When I read the definition, it makes sense, but it doesn't resound within me as something I really understand. But, when I think of different situations that I have been connected to, I can see myself fitting in the parameters. There are times when I feel sad for someone, or feel bad that they are in a situation, but I'm not sure I would go as far as to say I have "a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow" - how does that help? The second part of the definition works better for me - I like to fix things for people. Honestly, I don't think that has as much to do for the people as it does for me - how sad is that?
I was talking with friends today about this very subject. I think that there are some people who are incredibly gifted at listening and feeling sad for someone - that is not me. I decided today that I need to be the second stop in the process. I'm the person who is good for "I'm sorry you feel that way, and I understand why you are hurting, but it's time to start picking up the pieces and moving forward again" - the shorter version is "You're right, it's sad, but that's life". That's my gifting.
I have often felt guilty at my lack of compassion. It has never bugged me if friends tease me about it, but it cuts to the core when it comes from my family (I didn't get like this all by myself people).
Compassion is two sided - I don't give it well and I certainly don't take it well. It just doesn't work for me and it does not serve me well in my life. Don't get me wrong friends - I care about you and love you. I can listen well and you can cry with me - all of that is ok. But when you're tired of people crying with you and telling you "it's going to be alright" (like they know that), come and visit me. I'll help you make a plan and take some action and I will encourage you every step of the way.
I realized today that there is nothing wrong with me (well in the area of compassion, anyways). God gifted me the way He did because He knows all about the life I lead and the friends I have. He also knows my family. Yes, I could work on being a bit nicer, but I'll let other people be in the compassion trenches - I am needed in other places.