I Am Because We Are
Written By Dr. Dorji Wangchuk
I am because we are – so an Ubuntu philosophy from Africa goes on the ontological question: Who am I? Ubuntu emphasises the interconnectedness of all individuals and their duty towards each other and their surroundings. Unlike the Western thoughts that focus on personal achievement and independence, Ubuntu stresses communal values and interdependence and argues that our well-being is deeply interconnected with others.
The Ubuntu concept of one’s personhood with the society is similar to the Asian communities than the Western classical statement, “I think, therefore I am” as enunciated by Rene Descartes – the 17th-century French philosopher.
In Bhutan the sense of self that people construct of themselves of that of an interdependent self that consists of the personal self, social self, and the spiritual self. This is because of the strong influence of the Indic-Buddhist worldview of karma, which stipulates that everything is as it is, because of our karma – including the fact that one is born in a particular place at a particular period. We thrive as a community. We survived as a community.
Modern technologies, such as planes, trains, the Internet, and smartphones, have shrunk the world. In the words of Tom Friedman, the world is flat. We have multiple ways to connect and to stay connected. Yet, people feel disconnected, lost, and isolated. In many countries, suicides are on the rise, and mental health has become a public health issue.
Maybe all is not lost. Maybe through the understanding and appreciation of the ancient wisdom, which when retrieved and incorporated into modern life and work, we can feel alive, safe, connected, and loved and we can exude our best without the fear of being judged or misunderstood when we are in the right community.
Build a community
Do you have such a welcoming and understanding community? If not, build one. There are many out there seeking the community, connection, and timeless wisdom that has brought us this far as a species. Move out from the current herd and find a new one because there will always be a group that will welcome you, love you unconditionally, and let you be who you are.
Being in the right community, the right organisation or the right company is important for one growth and potential. Just as no flower or plant will grow well in a bad environment, every human needs, and deserves, the right one to flourish.
