In my point of view, it takes a lot of strength to be compassionate, especially when you are up against harshness, cruelty, anger and fear.
Some mistake the act of being compassionate as a sign of weakness. Others may feel that compassion means giving up everything for someone else, or simply helping people out in times of need, such as a natural disaster, or saving an animal's life.
While giving to others and extending a helping hand in dire situations are indeed examples of being compassionate, you can never be wrong, or faulted by showing compassion.
There seems to be much violence in our world that comes from intolerance from people who are unable, or unwilling to seek compromise.
I feel this reaction is the result of the inability to feel compassion and empathy for others including animals.
Although most of us have little control over this arena in world events, we can influence the compassion experienced and communicated in our day-to-day life.