Avoiding mean Associations
Mananalam Mannuyirk Kaakkam Inanalam / Ellaap Pukazhum Tharum
Classical English couplet — “Goodness of mind to lives of men increaseth gain;And good companionship doth all of praise obtain”
What it says in plain words
“A good mind helps you build a better life. Good company also helps you earn respect and praise.”
The classical Tamil reading
மனதின் நன்மை உயிர்க்கு ஆக்கமாகும், இனத்தின் தன்மை (அவ்வளவோடு நிற்காமல்) எல்லாப் புகழையும் கொடுக்கும்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
மனத்தின் நலம் உயிருக்கு ஆக்கமாக விளங்கும் இனத்தின் நலமோ எல்லாப் புகழையும் வழங்கும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
Your good thoughts help you make choices that improve your life. The people around you also matter for how you live. Being with good people can help you earn others' respect. The couplet values both a good mind and good company.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You spend time with friends who encourage kindness and honest choices.
- Workplace
- You join coworkers who do careful work and share credit fairly.
- Family
- You encourage your children to build friendships with caring people.
- Society
- You join neighbors who help others and earn the community's trust.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Consider both your own intentions and the company you choose.
- Integrity
- Keep your actions honest and stay close to people who value honesty.
- Communication
- Speak kindly and spend time with people who speak respectfully.
- Leadership
- Bring together people whose good conduct helps the whole team earn respect.
- Governance
- Choose public officials who act well and work with trustworthy people.
For leaders and teams
Your own good intentions matter, but so do those around you. Build a team of good people whose actions earn respect.
Something to sit with
“Who in your life helps you make good choices and earn others' trust?”