Unforgetfulness
Ariyaendru Aakaadha Illaipoch Chaavaak / Karuviyaal Potrich Cheyin
Classical English couplet — “Though things are arduous deemed, there's nought may not be won,When work with mind's unslumbering energy and thought is done”
What it says in plain words
“Even difficult tasks can be done when you remember what needs doing and work with care.”
The classical Tamil reading
மறவாமை என்னும் கருவிகொண்டு (கடமைகளைப்) போற்றிச் செய்தால், செய்வதற்கு அரியவை என்று ஒருவனால் முடியாத செயல்கள் இல்லை.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
மறதியில்லாமலும், அக்கறையுடனும் செயல்பட்டால், முடியாதது என்று எதுவுமே இல்லை
The ethical and philosophical heart
A hard task may feel too big at first. Remembering each step helps you keep track of what matters. The key is to remember and act with care. At home or work, this helps you handle difficult tasks without missing important steps.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- You keep a list of bills and check each payment carefully.
- Workplace
- You follow a checklist so a difficult job gets done without missed steps.
- Family
- You remember each person's needs while planning a family move.
- Society
- Neighbors track unfinished repairs and follow up until the shared playground is ready.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Check what a difficult task needs before deciding it cannot be done.
- Integrity
- Remember your promises and take care to keep them.
- Communication
- Write down agreed tasks so important details are not forgotten.
- Leadership
- Help your team remember key steps and complete each one carefully.
- Governance
- Track public projects carefully so needed work does not get forgotten.
For leaders and teams
Help others remember what needs doing when a task feels difficult. Keep important steps clear, and follow up with care.
Something to sit with
“What difficult task could you approach today by remembering its steps and giving each one care?”