Pronounced “oo-boon-too”
Often translated as “I am because we are” or “humanity towards others”. Ubuntu is a traditional African concept based on the belief that connection and community are essential to a harmonized existence. It is the essence of being human — the idea that we’re all in this together, and that our actions can have a butterfly effect on those around us.
According to the New World Encyclopedia, the defining virtues of ubuntu are helpfulness, sharing, kindness, respect, trust and selflessness. So, then, to practice ubuntu means jumping in to help other people whenever you can. Complimenting people, being generous with your praise, acting empathetically and definitely getting involved in your community.
It’s a new decade … let’s try to practice ubuntu.
Let me finish with a wonderful quote for the beginning the new year …:
“We will open the book.
Its pages are blank.
We are going to put words on them ourselves.
The book is called opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.”
Edith Lovejoy Pierce, Poet
