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Friends of Compassion

Compassion is a purpose uniting values that treat all human beings with respect. We invite you to become a link in our chain of compassion by supporting this special sculpture of gratitude.

Join us

What

The six-foot bronze Tree of Compassion, rendered by Greenville sculptor Philip Whitley, will be an icon of unity. The two stylized branches reach one another without touching the trunk, representing the community oneness of humanity, yet leaving space for individual growth, choice, and freedom. The branch on the left stands for our past elders whose wisdom and courage created the foundation we stand on today. The branch on the right stands for the torch carried forward by the current generation. Their individual commitment, resilience, and vision make our community both vibrant and prosperous. Lastly, the trunk holds three leaves: the past and present together cradle the center leaf - our legacy, our future.

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Why

In tribute to the achievements of Greenville and its people, the Tree of Compassion is a symbol of our city’s collective human spirituality. Why not combine our community’s humanity and goodwill and reach for a higher plateau of compassionate thinking?

Where

Heritage Green is the ideal space for this particular sculpture and what it represents for Greenville. A reminder of our common aspirations, our history, legacy, and a permanent symbol of our shared humanity.

Who

Presented by Board Chair Gwen Goad and the Friends of Compassion who span generations and attempt daily to make decisions guided by kindness, gratitude, reason, and compassion.

When

The unveiling of the bronze Tree of Compassion is on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.. This sculpture is our gift from The Friends of Compassion to the Greenville County Hughes Library.

Join the Friends of Compassion Today!

A MEMORY FROM META BARNES JONES, GREENVILLE'S ONLY OMBUDSMAN

Dear Gwen —

Last Evening is a memory to be treasured. It was filled with meaning and memories. Surely you went off to New York to receive a merited award, floating on a cloud of assurance of love and support from your many friends here, your extended family.

Your delightful play, timely recognition of Myra, and her contributions were just the right prelude to the beautiful tributes your mother (and you) and to Sara. Our memories of these gallant women were reawakened. They are treasured even more as we were reminded of the worthiness of their lives.

Thank you, Gwen, for all the significant events you foster, for giving us the opportunity, in a respectful way, to honor these stalwart women of the past, and you, a stalwart woman of the present.

My love,