REFLECTIVE INSIGHT #049 - HE WHAKAARO PAI KI NGĀ TĀNGATA KATOA: GOODWILL TOWARDS ALL PEOPLE
Our Shared Connection
Everything in this world is tied together. From the soil beneath our feet to the stars above, we are all part of one big, woven family. Because we are so closely linked, the way we carry ourselves matters more than we might think. When we walk into a room with a heavy heart or an angry spirit, others feel it. But when we choose to have "He Whakaaro Pai," or good will, we bring a sense of peace that can actually help heal the people around us. It is about realising that our kindness is a gift we give to the whole community.
Looking Out for Others
Many of our whānau in the North are going through some pretty rough times right now. Some are struggling to make ends meet, while others are dealing with loneliness or a dark cloud over their mental health. In times like these, we can’t just wait for a big government plan to fix things. We have to look out for each other right here, in our own streets and homes. By being a positive light, we help lift the heavy weight off someone else's shoulders. We give them a safe place to just be themselves, which is the first step toward getting their strength back.
The Light of Ihu
My faith tells me that we were meant to be a blessing to others. Ihu (Yeshua’s name in the Paipera Tapu) taught us that our lives should be like a lamp on a hill, shining bright so that everyone can see the path. He didn't want us to keep our love to ourselves; he wanted us to share it so that the world could see the goodness of our Creator.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16, NKJV)
"Kia pēnei te taiao o tō koutou mārama ki te aroaro o ngā tāngata, kia kite ai rātou i ā koutou mahi pai, kia whakakorōria ai i tō koutou Matua i te rangi." (Translated from the original Greek)
Simple Ways to Help
You don't need a fancy degree or a lot of money to make a difference in someone’s life. Often, the most powerful thing you can do is just check in. A few kind words can plant a seed of hope in a heart that has been feeling empty. We want to move away from just talking about problems and start being part of the solution by strengthening our bonds with each other. When we support a friend, we are making our whole community stronger and more full of life.
Seven Seeds of Kindness
Here are some simple things you can say to a friend or family member who might be having a hard day. These phrases are designed to show them they are valued and that they aren't alone:
1. Kei konei ahau mōu, ahakoa te aha. (I am here for you, no matter what.)
2. He rerekētanga nui tō rārangi mai. (Your presence makes a great difference.)
3. E whakarongo ana ahau, mehemea ka hiahia koe ki te kōrero. (I am listening, if you wish to speak.)
4. He taonga nui koe, e arohatia ana koe. (You are a great treasure, and you are loved.)
5. Kia āta haere, kaua e whāwhai. (Take it slowly, there is no rush.)
6. Me pēhea taku āwhina i tō pīkaunga i tēnei rā? (How can I help with your burden today?)
7. E whakapono ana ahau ki a koe. (I believe in you.)
Leading With Love
I truly believe that Taitokerau can lead the way for the rest of the world. We can show everyone what it looks like to live in peace and sustainability, but it all starts with how we treat the person standing right in front of us. When we prioritise people over profit and kindness over being right, we create a place where everyone can thrive. Let’s make it our goal to leave every person we meet feeling a little bit better than they did before. That is how we build a future that is bright and full of hope for our mokopuna.
