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Chaplain's thought for the day

  • Published
  • By Chaplain (Maj.) John M. Painter
  • 315th Airlift Wing Chaplain's Office
JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. --  What resolutions have you made for the New Year? To lose weight? To get fit? To get out of debt? Some may have resolved to be a more compassionate friend, loving spouse, or patient parent.

If you could use a some help with your approach to relating to others, take a few moments to think about the implications of the simple but meaningful Zulu greeting "Sawubona" and the traditional response "Ngikhona."

I don't speak Zulu, but I researched the meaning of this greeting on several language websites after hearing the term at the church I attend and then reading a blog by a missionary from South Africa. The greeting means "I see you" and the response means "I am here."

Inherent in this exchange is the idea that, until we really see another person, it is as if they did not exist.

How many times have you been in an unfamiliar place and tried to make contact with another person to ask directions or simply receive the reassurance of a smile? How did it feel when you knew those around you were intentionally avoiding eye contact, or were so caught up in their attention to an electronic device that they did not realize that you were present.

On the other hand, didn't it feel wonderful to have a person speak to you kindly, to ask about your day and sincerely want to help? A conversation probably started and you likely considered this person a friend.

In the same article referenced earlier, the missionary mentions a Zulu folk song that includes the line "A person is a person because of other people." He compares the song to the opening line in the theme from the long running TV program "Cheers": "You want to be where everybody knows your name."

The most important thing we can do each day is to make time to have genuine conversation with family, friends, and co-workers; to find out what they have experienced, to offer wisdom, advice, assistance.

So, I encourage you to look around as you go about your day, whether you are taking care of the mission at your civilian workplace or your home -- really "look" at those who are around you. Let them know that you are aware of their presence and their significance in your life. You will be a better wingman, friend, and family member as a result.

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