Because I am a Geekess, you may think that UBUNTUrefers to the free open source operating system based on Linux…okay, maybe that’s just me… However, I am talking about the African philosophy that I just fell in love with.
Here’s the story: An anthropologist proposed a game to African tribe kids. He put a basket full of fruit near a tree and told them that whoever got there first won the sweet fruits.
When he told them to run they all took each others hands and ran together, then sat together enjoying their treats.
When he asked them why they had run like that as one could have had all the fruits for himself they said:
UBUNTU,
how can one of us be happy if all the other ones are sad?
UBUNTU in the Xhosa culture means: “I am because we are” – the essence of being human.
We are interconnected. We can’t exist as a human being in isolation. Our contribution – or lack of it – affects the world at large.
When we have UBUNTU we are:
- Available
- Open
- Affirming
UBUNTU the pathway to happiness, harmony and a healthy existence.
See why I’m in love?
Guiding YOUR Path to Success,
Copyright © Elayna Fernández 2012
Known worldwide as "The Positive MOM", Elayna Fernandez - Bare is a bestselling author, international keynote speaker, and award-winning entrepreneurial Success Guide.
LOVE the sentiment of UBUNTU. In my field (criminal justice) it has been shown that you can do tremendous harm to a human being in prison by committing them to solitary confinement. I think so speaks to the need of humans to interact, connect, and communicate in order to survive and thrive.
Elayna, I love that…UBUNTU!! It’s all about happiness, harmony and a healthy existence!!
Thanks for sharing!!
Stay fabYOUlous!!
I love your message Elayna! Hawaii has been my home for most of my life and over the years I’ve been inspired again and again by the wonderful cultural stories and tradtions that hold so much truth and wisdom. Thanks for the inspiration!
UBUNTU, I love it. I can see why you are in love.
Hello Elayna, I loved learning about this story. I stayed on your page a little longer as I had a coaching session and when it ended I read it a second time. It’s amazing how such a short story holds a really powerful message. Thank you for sharing…I will be reflecting on this further I am sure. ~ Nathalie
Love this story and the meaning behind it. Thanks for sharring it with us.
Jean
Gratitude Coach
http://socgratitude.com/32934
I think your blog is a brilliant place for mums to be, and I love the name Elayna. This post is very special – what a warming story – UBUNTU Rules
Jacs
I love this. Working as a united group is the best. It sure would be nice if everyone thought this way. The world would be heaven!
Hum … lovely article. Funny thing is I commented on this last week and i don’t see my comment here. Anyway, living in Hawaii most of my life I have come to value indigenous cultures for their sensitivity and the way their traditions always seem to get to the heart of being human.
I had seen the picture going around of the fruit basket and heard this story before but it never fails to touch me deeply. Thank you for sharing it again. I have shared your post everywhere – and will be sharing it on my facebook page devoted to love – http://facebook.com/loveunsolicited – hope you’ll join me over there
Louise Edington