Simple concept, often misunderstood.
Compassion is taking what you have, and sharing with others who need.
What is not compassion?
Taking something from another, keeping a bit for yourself, and then giving the rest to another.
By definition, government programs are not compassionate.
When you say: I want government funding of education, what you are really saying is: I want the government to take something from SOMEBODY ELSE, spend some on a bureacracy, and then give a little left over to the people in need of education.
No one in that scenario is acting compassionate.
Justify government programs however you will -- just don't call them "compassionate".
Original: This is Compassion