Compassion? Poem by Ruth White

What's the meaning of compassion? I've heard that word before.
I think it means to love, to protect, and also to adore.
I have felt compassion, those who love me give me plenty.
So I try to show some back, but I always appear empty.
What is the difference between their show of love and mine?
Are my ears both deaf and so my eyes both blind?
Why can't I show love the way that they do?
Is it because I say my words all rough and cruel?
I try to speak from the heart, but it comes from the mind.
They often leave battle wounds for they are never kind.
“Toughen up! ” is a phrase I do often say.
And I use it throughout the whole living day.
I pray for guidance, but it has yet to come.
I often feel left out and so I feel lonesome.
What if I came out and then straight forwardly asked for help?
Would anyone come to my aid? Or would I be felt to yelp?
Until I can give compassion, of that everyone does desire.
My words will act like bullets coming from a gunfire.
And I would like to say sorry for the harsh words I spit in your eye.
But I can't, because that would undoubtedly be a straight up lie.