Hearing
Katrila Naayinung Ketka Aqdhoruvarku / Orkaththin Ootraan Thunai
Classical English couplet — “Though learning none hath he, yet let him hear alway:In weakness this shall prove a staff and stay”
What it says in plain words
“Even without studying books, you can learn by listening to knowledgeable people. What you learn can support you when life becomes difficult.”
The classical Tamil reading
நூல்களைக் கற்றவில்லையாயினும், கற்றறிந்தவர்களிடம் கேட்டறிய வேண்டும், அது ஒருவனுக்கு வாழ்க்கையில் தளர்ச்சி வந்த போது ஊன்றுகோல் போல் துணையாகும்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
நூல்களைக் கற்காவிட்டாலும், கற்றவரிடம் கேட்டுத் தெரிந்து கொண்டால், அது நடை தளர்ந்தவனுக்கு உதவிடும் ஊன்றுகோலைப் போலத் துணையாக அமையும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
Books are not the only way to gain useful knowledge. Listening to people who know more gives you something to draw on. Their lessons can become a walking stick in hard times. When you feel unsure or struggle, those lessons can help you find your next step.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You use advice from a money adviser when paying bills becomes difficult.
- Workplace
- You follow an experienced coworker's advice when a task goes wrong.
- Family
- You draw on an experienced parent's advice when your child struggles at school.
- Society
- Neighbors use lessons from trained rescue workers when a flood hits.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- When unsure, listen to someone who understands the problem well.
- Integrity
- Admit what you do not know, and learn from someone who knows more.
- Communication
- Listen carefully so you can use helpful advice later.
- Leadership
- Learn from experienced people before your team faces a difficult situation.
- Governance
- Public officials can learn from trained emergency workers before a crisis.
For leaders and teams
Make time to learn by listening to others. Their knowledge can help you guide people through difficult times.
Something to sit with
“Whose knowledge could help you with a difficulty you face today?”