Seeking the Aid of Great Men
Utranoi Neekki Uraaamai Murkaakkum / Petriyaarp Penik Kolal
Classical English couplet — “Cherish the all-accomplished men as friends,Whose skill the present ill removes, from coming ill defends”
What it says in plain words
“Value people who help you solve problems and prevent future trouble. Keep them close and treat them with care.”
The classical Tamil reading
வந்துள்ள துன்பத்தை நீக்கி, இனித் துன்பம் வராதபடி முன்னதாகவே காக்கவல்ல தன்மையுடையவரைப் போற்றி நட்புக் கொள்ள வேண்டும்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
வந்துள்ள துன்பத்தைப் போக்கி, மேலும் துன்பம் நேராமல் காக்கவல்ல பெரியோர்களைத் துணையாகக் கொள்ள வேண்டும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
Some people help us when trouble has already arrived. They also notice risks and help us prepare early. Their support offers help now and protection ahead. Value these people and take good care of those relationships.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- Stay in touch with a friend who helps you manage debt and plan spending.
- Workplace
- Value a coworker who fixes mistakes and helps the team avoid repeating them.
- Family
- Appreciate a relative who settles arguments and helps everyone discuss problems earlier.
- Society
- Support local volunteers who help during floods and prepare the neighborhood before heavy rain.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Seek advice from someone who can solve today's problem and spot tomorrow's risks.
- Integrity
- Give credit to people whose advice helped you through trouble.
- Communication
- Ask trusted helpers what needs fixing now and what could go wrong later.
- Leadership
- Keep people close who handle problems well and help prevent new ones.
- Governance
- Value advisers who address current needs and prepare public services for future risks.
For leaders and teams
Choose helpers who solve problems and prevent trouble. Appreciate their support and care for them, not just their skills.
Something to sit with
“Who helps you handle trouble and prepare ahead, and how could you show them care today?”