How to Practice Ujima During Kwanzaa
Ujima is defined as the idea of a culture of collective work and responsibility. Realizing that members of a community must all be working for the common good to achieve happiness and satisfaction is a key component of Ujima. You must also realize that a commitment must be made to work and raise your family with a responsible and collective work ethic that should be passed on from generation to generation.
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Instructions
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Live your life as an example to your children and your friends. You must go to work every day that you are able. Once you are there, you must work diligently, to the best of your ability.
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Teach your children the value of working to earn money or items. They should also be taught the value of earning respect from not only employers, but neighbors and local community members as well. Your reputation is something that you must work hard at and earn over time.
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Make it a point to appreciate those around you for what they do and for what they represent to you. You should always show appreciation for your spouse and your children. They are your gifts and your responsibility, so you should treasure them with all your heart.
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Make responsible decisions for yourself and for your family. The right choices should be made that benefit all people involved, not just you. You should take time alone for a careful evaluation of the negative implications of any decision that involves others. Then make the best informed decision to benefit the majority.
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Sacrifice for the common good. In order to be a good example, teacher or mentor, you must learn to occasionally sacrifice your own desires for the maximum benefit of others. This self-sacrificing characteristic will teach you many lessons in life that otherwise could never have been taught.
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Tips & Warnings
Ujima is observed on the third day of Kwanzaa (December 28). Kwanzaa begins annually on December 26th and ends on January 1.
There are six other principles of Kwanzaa besides Ujima. They are Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith).
Regardless of how many mistakes you have made in the past, it is never to late to begin the practice of Ujima.
Avoid fixating on the Ujima of others and instead concentrate on your own actions.
Don't assume that Ujima is only for people of African descent. This principle is recommended for all.
