Friday, August 23, 2024

Words and Phrases Worth Knowing

Words from other languages or cultures sometimes are hard to apply directly to English but stand on their own. Here are a few worth knowing (edited lightly): 

1. Mana - (Brave AI)

Hawaiian and Polynesian Cultures: In traditional Hawaiian and Polynesian societies, mana refers to a supernatural force or power that can be attributed to both living and non-living beings. It is often associated with spiritual energy, divine power, or miraculous abilities.

2. Ikigai - (Chat GPT)

Ikigai is a Japanese concept that translates roughly to "a reason for being" or "a reason to wake up in the morning." It represents the intersection of four fundamental elements in life: what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.

In essence, finding your ikigai involves identifying the sweet spot where your passions, skills, societal needs, and potential for earning overlap. It’s often depicted as a Venn diagram with these four circles, and the goal is to find where all of them converge. Embracing your ikigai can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life, aligning your daily activities with your deeper sense of purpose.

3. Mudita (Brave AI)

Mudita is a Sanskrit term that refers to the experience of joy or pleasure derived from seeing others succeed or achieve good fortune. It is often described as “sympathetic” or “vicarious” joy, as it arises from delighting in the well-being of others, rather than being self-centered or prideful.

The traditional example of mudita is a parent’s joy in seeing their child succeed or thrive. In this sense, mudita is an unselfish and unconditional joy that celebrates the happiness of others, without expectation of personal gain or benefit.

In everyday life, mudita can manifest as genuine happiness and satisfaction when friends or loved ones achieve their goals, overcome challenges, or experience good fortune.

Far better to experience MUDITA than envy or jealousy for others. 

4. Ubuntu (Chat GPT)

"I am, because we are." 

Ubuntu is an African philosophy and term originating from the Nguni Bantu languages, meaning "humanity towards others" or "I am because we are." It emphasizes community, mutual support, and interconnectedness, highlighting the importance of relationships and shared humanity. The essence of ubuntu is about recognizing and valuing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, and fostering a sense of collective responsibility and compassion.

5. "One finger cannot lift a pebble." - Hopi Proverb

Prior to 1815, "American" referred to Native American. Native Americans, not a unique tribe or culture, shared a wealth of wisdom about community and life.

Collaboration gets more done. One finger can poke you in the eye. A fist puts an opponent down. 

 “Seek wisdom, not knowledge. Knowledge is of the past, wisdom is of the future.” - Lumbee Proverb

Lagniappe. Be the hardest worker and challenge teammates to all work to the highest standard. 

Lagniappe 2. A consistent serve toss is critical. L.P. Mainville explains why.  

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