Unforgetfulness
Irandha Vekuliyin Theedhe Sirandha / Uvakai Makizhchchiyir Sorvu
Classical English couplet — “'Tis greater ill, it rapture of o'erweening gladness to the soulBring self-forgetfulness than if transcendent wrath control”
What it says in plain words
“Forgetting your duties because you are carried away by joy can cause more harm than extreme anger.”
The classical Tamil reading
பெரிய உவகையால் மகிழ்ந்திருக்கும் போது மறதியால் வரும் சோர்வு, ஒருவனுக்கு வரம்பு கடந்த சினம் வருவதைவிடத் தீமையானதாகும்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
அகமகிழ்ச்சியினால் ஏற்படும் மறதி, அடங்காத சினத்தினால் ஏற்படும் விளைவை விடத் தீமையானது
The ethical and philosophical heart
Great happiness can make us forget what needs our care. We may miss a promise or leave important work unfinished. The couplet warns that this forgetfulness can be worse than extreme anger. The lesson is to enjoy happiness without forgetting your duties.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- While celebrating good news, remember to take your medicine.
- Workplace
- After winning a big order, remember to check the delivery date.
- Family
- While enjoying a party, remember to collect your child on time.
- Society
- After a successful community event, remember to return borrowed chairs.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Before making plans to celebrate, check what still needs your attention.
- Integrity
- Keep your promises even when good news fills your mind.
- Communication
- Share your excitement, but remember to pass on important details.
- Leadership
- Celebrate the team's success while keeping track of unfinished work.
- Governance
- After an election win, keep attending to people's daily needs.
For leaders and teams
Help others celebrate without losing focus when things go well. Keep important duties clear, even during the happiest moments.
Something to sit with
“When you feel very happy, what helps you remember what still needs your care?”