That one is kinda deep fuzz, I think that compassion is an active display of caring about people in general or specific individuals, compassion is that part of the spirit that wants to reach out and pull you out of whatever mess you may be in, whether its emotional, financial, spirtual, or physical.

Empathy is the ability to relate to how someone feels. Empathy comes from an understanding of what another has is going through at a given time and to tune your understranding to their's.

To have a meaningful relationship to another person in any capacity requires both things to be present. I deep emotional understanding of the other person and willingness to act out of love for them on their behalf.

Its not a great answer but I am a bit groggy from a long day, I hope this helps

take care my bear,

TJ