When an individual or organization affirms the International Charter for Compassion, the question almost always immediately asked is “What’s next?” David Breaux of Davis, California, considered a guru of compassion, gathers with groups and asks the question, “What is Compassion?” Over the past 7 -8 years he has gathered thousands of responses, many of them similar, and all seem to point to our core essence as one of love. Researchers have concluded we are hardwired for kindness, for empathy, and for compassion. David is convinced that when we act unconditionally from our core of love, then “right action” always takes place. I agree. When one asks what is the right thing to do in a particularly situation, right action always happens when one acts from unconditional love.

That seems to be what the annual International Compassion Global Unity Games are all about. The Games answer the question, “What’s the right thing to do?” And they answer the question, “What’s next?” Intentional acts of kindness and compassion is what the Games are all about. And the Games can be year-round, not just the usual September 11 – 21 period designated each year.

Along with many other individuals, organizations, and cities, Compassionate DFW just completed this year’s Global Games, which began on September 11, an important date for the United States, and concluded on September 21, the International Day of Peace. This was our third year “coopetiting” with other cities and metropolises to see which among us was the “most” kind and compassionate. Yes, sounds like “competition,” but in this case everyone and every organization and city wins – a “non-zero sum” game.

We began our “Game On!” September 10 with a Feeding Children Everywhere (FCE) event in Richardson, Texas, at its Civic Center where over 800 volunteers packaged over 75,000 meals. At the same time another FCE event with Aga Khan Council of Central United States packaged 100,000 meals with I-CERV volunteers and others in Carrollton, Texas, along with its Mayor, Kevin Falconer. A few days later, on September 15, FCE packaged another 50,000 meals at Dallas’ Arboretum, making a total of over 225,000 meals during the Games. Meals were distributed to local food banks, as well as to Harvey hurricane victims along the eastern coast of Texas.

The Games in the DFW area concluded September 21, the International Day of Peace, with a silent, meditative Compassion Walk from Klyde Warren Park to Thanks-Giving Square where civic leaders gave remarks on peace in our community, nation, and world – an overall fitting conclusion to the Games.

Between September 9 and September 24 – this year’s official Games period – there were many more “official” acts and events of kindness and compassion in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. These and more, including all those from around the world can be viewed by clicking here and exploring the Global Map. Click on any area of the world, browse, drill down to local areas and see. Really neat, and a lot of fun!….definitely right action from our core essence, and a wonderful “next step” after affirmation of the Charter for Compassion.

Blessings/ Charlie Barker, President, Compassionate DFW.