Benignity
Kannottam Ennum Kazhiperung Kaarikai / Unmaiyaan Untiv Vulaku
Classical English couplet — “Since true benignity, that grace exceeding great, residesIn kingly souls, world in happy state abides”
What it says in plain words
“The world keeps going because people show love and kindness. This care for others is a person's greatest beauty.”
The classical Tamil reading
கண்ணோட்டம் என்று சொல்லப்படுகின்ற மிகச் சிறந்த அழகு இருக்கும் காரணத்தால் தான், இந்த உலகம் அழியாமல் இருக்கின்றது.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
இந்த உலகம், அன்பும் இரக்கமும் இணைந்த கண்ணோட்டம் எனப்படுகிற பெரும் அழகைக் கொண்டவர்கள் இருப்பதால்தான் பெருமை அடைகிறது
The ethical and philosophical heart
The couplet calls kindness a beauty that keeps the world going. It means caring about people and responding to their pain. At home or work, kindness helps people live together. People who offer such care make the world a better place.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You help a neighbor carry groceries when they are struggling.
- Workplace
- You patiently help a coworker who finds a task difficult.
- Family
- You sit with a worried family member and listen.
- Society
- Neighbors bring meals to someone who is too ill to cook.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Think about who might struggle because of your choice.
- Integrity
- Treat people kindly even when nobody is watching you.
- Communication
- Listen to someone's worries before you offer your advice.
- Leadership
- Offer help when someone you lead is having a hard day.
- Governance
- Make public services welcoming and helpful to people in need.
For leaders and teams
Make care for people central to how you lead. Notice when someone struggles, and respond with patience and help.
Something to sit with
“Who around you could use a little more kindness today?”