UBUNTU is an ancient African word that means that your sense of self is shaped by everyone around you –” I am because of how you are”.
My African friends talked about this at a music event we hosted this weekend. They put an emphasis on the “How you are” aspect of the phrase, which you don’t find in the dictionary. It’s about fostering a moral code of humanity toward others*.
Right now, this is particularly salient. The US and the world are being affected by how those in leadership in our country are acting. Ubuntu’s concept of shared humanity highlights the responsibility we have toward one another, which is currently being violated. What can you do?
Here are some thoughts on how you can bring more UBUNTU back into your life.
SHOW RESPECT
Despite differences in opinion, ethnicity, culture and spirituality, we can still be respectful toward one another, honoring our differences. In a society that profits from the outrage of divisiveness, it is still possible to maintain and show respect toward others for our common humanity.
HAVE COMPASSION AND TOLERENCE
Person to person, respect can be shown as compassion and tolerance for one another. Help those in need, reach out to those in distress. Have more tolerance for those who may be different than you. I find that when you stay clear from politics, this is easy. We are all wired for kindness and compassion.
ACT ON THE GREATER GOOD
The “Hands Off” movement is action taken to highlight what will be lost if we don’t continue to take responsibility to honor one another’s greater good. On an everyday basis, you can represent one another’s greater good through the integrity of your actions. Use teamwork over competition, be fair, honest and accountable. We are inter-dependent, consider how your actions impact others and let UBUNTU be a moral code that guides you.
How are you doing? If you would like more support, please reach out.
