Compassion is the New Life Hack | Kevin Tuerff | TEDxLakeheadU

"On 9/11, compassion transformed me. Try it, you’ll feel happier, and cities will reduce suffering."

On September 11, when US airspace was closed, Kevin Tuerff’s transatlantic flight was diverted to Gander, Newfoundland, population 9,000. He was one of 6,579 stranded airline passengers and crew from 90 countries who were recipients of compassion. The experience inspired him to create the annual Pay it Forward 9/11 random acts of kindness movement, which has spread from the US to Canada, UK and Australia. Medical research reveals performing acts of kindness releases chemicals in the brain, which create a feeling of euphoria.

Some confuse the definitions of empathy and compassion. Compassion means to engage in the suffering of others. By practicing kindness and compassion regularly, individuals can transform themselves and their local community.
Kevin Tuerff, Social Entrepreneur & Author

American Kevin Tuerff’s experience as a 9/11 refugee in Canada is one of the true stories inspiring a smash hit musical. Tuerff is CEO of Brokering Goodness, an ambassador for the Charter for Compassion, and author of Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx