Principle #3: Ujima, Collective Work and Responsibility

Day 3: Ujima, Collective Work and Responsibility

The first 2 principles encourage us to look at ourselves and examine how we as individuals relate to those around us, family friends and community. The third principle, Ujima, reminds us that we are only as strong as our weakest member and it is all of our responsibilities to work to find solutions to problems.

Most of us work, either for ourselves or for someone else and it is our jobs to serve or solve some problem that supports the greater good. Even in our communities, there are always those who find a need and serve their communities. I see the work that I do as a counselor and therapist as my way of making my brother and sister’s problems my own and together we work to solve them. If I can help a young person move past a childhood hurt, rebuild self-esteem and establish healthy boundaries, then that is one more adult in our community that is on a positive trajectory and they spread that healing to others they encounter. By working with married couples, I help the individuals in the relationship move through a difficult time in a healthy manner, so even if they decide to divorce, they can move on and coparent in a way that benefits and supports their children. More healing, less hurting!

I AM MY BROTHER AND SISTER'S KEEPER!

Find a way that you can serve: checking on an elder in your neighborhood, volunteering at a food pantry, hiring and mentoring a young person. The small things we do to solve small problems can have a positive impact for generations.  Every day there are opportunities for Ujima!

If you or someone you know could benefit from some support, please don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule an appointment.