In yoga we begin our practice with the word ‘Namaste‘, which means ‘I bow to you‘, but is sometimes also translated as ‘I see the divine in you, that is also in me‘.

It reminds me of the wonderful greeting in Zulu – one of the african languages. In Zulu they say ‘Sawubona‘ – ‘I see you‘. When you say it consciously it has an incredible power. I see you. Not like asking ‘How are you?’ without actually expecting an answer. But really seeing someone. To say ‘My whole attention is with you. I want to understand you. I see your needs, your wants, your joy, your sadness, your fear and your love.’ Doesn’t everyone want to be seen like that?

Observe common discussions: We listen to respond, not to understand. We present our case over and over. Rarely do we stop and say ‘I understand’ or even just ask something about what the other person said. Yet, when we do,  suddenly, instead of opposition there is understanding. We find solutions, because we see each other. Too rarely do we surrender to what the other person is trying to say. We are simply not willing to see them.

We only see our own position and don’t understand why we are not being heard. So we repeat it over and over. We don’t feel acknowledged… Until someone says: ‘Sawubona‘. I see you.

The answer is ‘Ngikhona’. What else could it be? ‘I am here’. I stand before you with my needs, my dreams, my joy, my sadness, my fear and my love. The Zulu assume that a person is only a person because of other people. When you are seen it feels like being born. It’s a relief and joy. But beware of stepping into the spotlight – seen by everyone – and putting on a glamorous show. Why? Well, if you’re in the spotlight, you’re blinded by the lights and you can’t see anyone else. The answer is not ‘Yes, look at me’. The answer is Ngikhona. I am here.

I am here. And I see you. Sawubona.

Who in your circle of friends do you really see? Consider people you have difficulties with. Are you ready to pay them your full attention, to fully see them for who they are? Observe who is willing to be seen and who hides? To whom can you say ‘I am here. This is me.‘? Yoga is not just a practice on the mat. When you meet people, think to yourself: Sawubona. Ngikhona.