I believe empathy is also a big part of the equation. If you can at a base human level feel what they are going through, you then could being to feel compassionate. However if there is no empathy, only pity can be evoked, even under the best of intentions.

I asked a question a few days ago about if all kindness is in essence selfish. In that you stand to gain ultimately in the end. This post really digs deep into that. Where the kindess and good will come from is equally as important as the action.

Great perspective. Something to think about. Do you think these are absolutes or can change over time?