Compassion is a word full of meaning. It means :

Sharing the same passion,
Sharing the same suffering,
Sharing the same agony,
Accepting into my heart
the misery in yours.

Your pain calls out to me.
It touches my heart.
It awakens something within me
and I become one with you in your pain.
I may not be able to relieve your pain,
But by understanding it, sharing it,
I make it possible for you to bear it
In a way that enhances your dignity
And helps you to grow.

Spiritual Pain – Jean Varnier