This "Coffee Talk" excerpt argues that demonstrating compassion effectively for global issues requires first showing it to those nearby, emphasizing that real compassion starts at home with friends, family, and neighbors. The author posits that prioritizing the needs of people in our immediate vicinity demonstrates integrity, as neglecting our community while advocating for distant causes reveals a potential disconnect between our actions and stated values. This selective approach is presented as a form of performance rather than genuine care, with the ultimate challenge being to move from simply claiming compassion to actively proving it by supporting those closest to us.