interesting comparison of the two. yet isn't compassion also a form of feeling sorry for or wanting to help? otherwise why would one have the emotion? and seeing the need for help means one also sees the need for change in the situation rather than just accepting the human condition, which is at certain times suffering.
I suppose it's all in where it's coming from and how you approach others. For example seeing someone terminally ill or struggling with past trauma doesn't mean we need to feel sorry for them. I think wanting to help others is just part of caring. Sometimes people just need to know someone does care and accept them regardless. You can empathize with someone and not pity them or feel better than them. Just like people can pity others and hate themselves inside. One is about acceptance and the other is about denial. Love vs fear. At least that's how I see it.
not disagreeing. it's a good thing to think on.