Ubuntu
As I do my work that is focused on change and improvement, I keep coming back to the concept of human potential. Most of the work I do is in the area of “Diversity and inclusion” in action. This is hard work in a world where “D&I” is corporate lip service. A label. A facade of the season. Lipstick on pigs.
Recently I continue to realize that we as humans are hugely influenced by each other. We vie for visibility and thirst for recognition by others, without which we don’t exist. The search for constant validation of ourselves through the eyes of others is a never-ending game.
This contrasts with wisdom from the African from Zulu speakers who believe in the concept of Ubuntu - they exist due to the recognition by the others. A beautiful concept. Ubuntu asserts that society, not a transcendent being, gives human beings their humanity. As I do my work, I keep coming back to this concept again and again, and yet again.
I leave you with a wonderful quote from Desmond Tutu who recently passed away.
