From Rome to Now: Compassion’s Revolution
For two years, I didn’t have a home. Not in the figurative “I’m searching for where I belong” sense, but in the very real, very cold “I have no idea where I’ll sleep tonight” sense. I became an expert at overstaying my welcome on friends’ couches, right up until the moment I could feel the tension rising. I befriended a security guard who turned a blind eye to me sleeping in a building lounge. On nights I couldn’t find anywhere else, I braved public shelters—grim places that often felt less safe than the streets themselves. In the winter, I took overnight jobs just to have a warm space to be, catching sleep on my breaks. And there were plenty of days when the only question on my mind was, When will I eat again?
That time in my life was as humbling as it was shaping. It didn’t just teach me survival; it rewired how I see homelessness, hunger, and community. It taught me that for people living on the edge, charity isn’t a nice gesture—it’s a lifeline.
What struck me, looking back, was how often people would talk about homelessness or hunger as if it were a math problem with an easy solution. “Just get a job,” they’d say, as if finding work when you have no address, no clean clothes, and no way to shower is the simplest thing in the world. Or worse: “Why don’t they just go to a shelter?” Anyone who has actually been in one knows that shelters are often overcrowded, chaotic, and dangerous. For many, staying outside feels safer.
Which brings me to Dominion, Tom Holland’s exploration of how Christianity reshaped the world’s values. Reading it, I couldn’t help but think about those two years. Holland argues that concepts like compassion for the poor, caring for the weak, and valuing every human life weren’t always part of the cultural fabric. In ancient Rome, the idea that the powerless deserved dignity would’ve been laughable. But then, along came this revolutionary idea—that every person is made in the image of God, and therefore every life has value.
When I was homeless, I experienced firsthand what happens when society forgets that. But I also saw glimpses of its power. The security guard who let me sleep in the lounge? He didn’t have to do that. He could’ve just done his job, but he chose to see me as a person, not a problem. That act of compassion, as small as it might seem, was life-changing in the moment.
What Holland reminds us is that in ancient Rome, acts of compassion were often considered a weakness, not a virtue. The Roman world admired power, strength, and self-sufficiency—qualities that left little room for caring for the poor or the sick. Charity wasn’t institutionalized; it was seen as a personal obligation, and often only extended within one’s social circle. The idea of elevating the marginalized or helping the destitute would’ve seemed, at best, impractical, and at worst, foolish.
Yet Christianity introduced a radical new perspective. It didn’t just pity the vulnerable—it valued them. Early Christians preached that the weak, the sick, and even the outcasts were worthy of love and dignity. This revolutionary thinking transformed the way society viewed the powerless, planting the seeds for the values we carry today. What was once a strange and subversive belief grew into the foundation of how we think about justice and care for others.
Holland’s book is a reminder that these values didn’t evolve naturally; they were hard-fought, countercultural ideas that grew out of a revolutionary worldview. And it’s on us to carry those forward—not just because they’re morally good, but because they work. They change lives.
Compassion, after all, isn’t about grand gestures or saving the world in one sweeping action. It’s about the choices we make every day—choices that ripple out in ways we might never see. The security guard probably doesn’t know the impact he had on me, but I’ll never forget it. Whether it’s the simple act of acknowledging someone’s humanity or supporting causes that care for the vulnerable, our actions carry weight.
So, if there’s one takeaway from all this, it’s this: Compassion isn’t a trend, and dignity isn’t optional. Whether you’re religious or not, the call to care for others isn’t just some old-fashioned idea—it’s a foundation that holds us all up. And if you’re ever in doubt about whether your small act of kindness matters, trust me—it does.
About the Author
Mathieu Yuill
While raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens may be a few of Julia Andrews' favourite things, here are a few of mine: Talking to strangers, Learning about what you do for fun, Conversation over coffee. I own a marketing and communications company in Toronto, Canada called Leading With Nice. There are a lot of names I could have given the company but a trusted friend encouraged me to name it that because I really value the humanness in us all. Bah - this is starting to sound like a horrible LinkedIn post. So whatever, let's have coffee. I'd love to hear about what you do for fun!9 responses to “From Rome to Now: Compassion’s Revolution”
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Mathieu,
I always like your writing, but this is, in my opinion, your finest post. I will never forget your personal story or the lesson that every act of compassion and dignity matters. With your permission, I will use this in a sermon.
Thank you for that vulnerability and your connection with Holland.
I’ve truly loved being in this cohort with you. The “Mathieu factor” is so important as you drew us in and so often kept the conversation full of joy, wonder, and down to earth. I was worried that this would be 2 years with a bunch of self-important, dour people, but the whole Cohort, with you manifesting it well, has been relational, transparent, fun, and “undefended”.
Can’t wait to cross the finish line with you, brother!
Mathieu,
I agree with Tim. Excellent post and truly challenging. “Compassion isn’t a trend, and dignity isn’t optional.” Perfect takeaway for the semester. Thanks, Mathieu!
The project is nearing the finish!
Hi Mathieu,
I’ve enjoyed every single one of your posts. I agree that this is your finest…they’ve all been wonderful. Your last words are powerful and will be remembered. Your thoughts about compassion standout, “Compassion, after all, isn’t about grand gestures or saving the world in one sweeping action. It’s about the choices we make every day—choices that ripple out in ways we might never see.” Your compassion and generosity are ripples making an impact everywhere you go. I’m grateful to be on this journey with you and excited to hear about your project!
Have a wonderful Christmas!
After reading your post, there is only one thing to say! I love you, man! Your life, your journey, and YOU! Simply amazing! You embody compassion and caring. Thank you! I’m still speechless from reading your post! I bow to you, sir!
Dear Matthieu~
Knowing you and having you in our peer group has given me insight into what true generosity is and how it genuinely reflects the heart of God. As I pray for you, I am often led to this Scripture for you: Exodus 33:13. I consider you a brother and a friend! See you in group and in Oregon May 2025!
Mathieu,
Thank you for sharing your story. I am quoting you on this in a book or something someday. . . . “Compassion, after all, isn’t about grand gestures or saving the world in one sweeping action. It’s about the choices we make every day—choices that ripple out in ways we might never see.” AMEN!!!!
You bring such joy to our weekly zoom chats. I loved hearing more of your story during the DC Advance and seeing videos of you when you were on Canadian television. God is using you to show compassion through the choices that are made every day through your company Leading with Nice. . . . ripples are going out in ways you do not see yet.
You put a smile on my face Mathieu. I like you!
Thanks for joining us on this journey. Blessings to you!
JOHN
Mathieu,
Thanks for sharing your great story. It is great because is demonstrates that Christian changes matter. On a deeply personal level.
I suppose that is what attracts most Asians to Christ. It is remarkably different from what is offered on the spiritual plate west of the Pacific.
It has been a deep pleasure getting to know you.
Shalom and MERRY CHRISTMAS
Oops it repeated the same message…so I deleted it.