Compassion
Nallaatraal Naati Arulaalka Pallaatraal / Therinum Aqdhe Thunai
Classical English couplet — “The law of 'grace' fulfil, by methods good due trial made,Though many systems you explore, this is your only aid”
What it says in plain words
“Think carefully about how to live, and choose kindness. Whatever paths you explore, kindness remains your guide and support.”
The classical Tamil reading
நல்ல வழியால் ஆராய்ந்து அருளுடையவர்களாக விளங்க வேண்டும்; பலவழிகளால் ஆராய்ந்து கண்டாலும் அருளே வாழ்க்கைக்குத் துணையாக இருக்கும்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
பலவழிகளால் ஆராய்ந்து கண்டாலும் அருள் உடைமையே வாழ்க்கைக்குத் துணையாய் விளங்கும் நல்வழி எனக் கொள்ளல் வேண்டும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
People have different ideas about the best way to live. This couplet asks us to think carefully, not follow blindly. Across those different paths, kindness remains our best guide. At home or work, this means considering how our choices affect others.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You stop to help someone pick up their dropped shopping.
- Workplace
- You help a struggling coworker rather than making fun of their mistakes.
- Family
- You listen patiently when a family member shares a worry.
- Society
- Neighbors bring meals to someone who is too sick to cook.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Consider your options carefully, including how each choice affects others.
- Integrity
- Keep treating people kindly, even when no one is watching.
- Communication
- Choose honest words that do not hurt people needlessly.
- Leadership
- When someone struggles, understand their difficulty before deciding how to respond.
- Governance
- Compare plans carefully and consider their effects on people who need help.
For leaders and teams
When people offer different advice, let kindness guide your choice. Think carefully about what those in your care need.
Something to sit with
“How could kindness guide a choice you are facing today?”