on complex inter-relationships. In the field of biology, food chains and symbiosis are based on
interdependence. Climate change affecting regions far apart is another system based on
interdependence. In the field of physics, subtleties of nature, the theories of quantum entanglement
and the general theory of relativity are based on interdependence. Einstein’s general theory of
relativity explains the relationship between gravity and space time. Interdependence is also
fundamental to the understanding of the origin of the universe. All these various systems and fields
require interdependence for their functioning. Recognizing that relations of mutual dependence
characterize so many aspects of our life moves us towards a more realistic understanding of the
world we live in. It also helps us better negotiate our own place in this complex world. This kind of
understanding is a strong catalyst to cultivate compassion, as it is more in tune with reality.
Recognizing interdependence reduces our selfishness, thereby enhancing our compassion.
Understanding interdependence gives us the panoramic view required to see the whole situation
clearly. This allows us better decision making.
Usually, we are wrapped up in our own feelings. Feelings of hurt take center stage. We rarely
move beyond our feelings and try to understand the feelings of the other person who has harmed
us. What are the circumstances in their life that led them to become a bully? And what are the
consequences for them of bullying others? If the other person were happy, there would be no
reason for them to act in a hostile manner towards me. So what difficulties are they facing? By
thinking from this panoramic perspective, more understanding and compassion naturally arise.
This wider perspective based on the understanding of interdependence is more balanced, offering
a more complete picture. As self-centeredness reduces, more humility arises. And compassion is
automatically enhanced, like a balance scale. In this way, understanding interdependence
increases our compassion.
Wisdom
This illustrates the very important role played by wisdom. Examining the ego thoroughly becomes
an important method of cultivating deeper, unbiased, universal compassion. This universal
compassion is not based on others’ response to us. It is not “If they are kind, I will be kind; and if
they are mean, I will be mean”. Rather, it is based on a more detached, thoughtful attitude from our
inner mental consciousness. Detachment frees us from taking things personally. It gives us the
freedom to act in an unbiased way. This is cultivated through wisdom. A detached attitude allows
our compassion to spread out further to more and more people. Eventually, our compassion will
spread to everyone equally. This is what is meant by great compassion. Great refers to the number
of those receiving our compassion, which eventually becomes almost limitless. At least, our
attitude is one of supporting everyone.
Everyone wants to be happy. No one wants pain. Recognizing repeatedly this similarity we share
with others brings us closer to them. We feel a shared humanity. At a deep level, we understand
we are all the same. Regardless of whether we are a man or a woman, young or old, or have other
differences, we all share this deep sameness of wanting to be well and not wanting to hurt. We
become a member of the large human family. No matter whether this person is a friend, stranger,
or even an enemy, they will all feel like new friends.
Adopting a wider perspective gives us the emotional space to distance our self from feelings of
anger. Having emotional space, we learn not to identify with the anger. We can just let the feeling
of anger go without clutching on to it as mine. We simply imagine the anger floating away like a
cloud drifting naturally across the sky. There is no need to identify with the anger as “me” or “mine.”
When people harm us in some way, it is helpful to recall that a vast array of factors have
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