All Skin Teeth Eh Laugh !

 All skin teeth eh laugh !

The Trinidadian saying, “All skin teeth eh laugh,” reminds us that a smile can hide deceit, just as glitter can conceal a lack of true value. To live with wisdom, we must look beyond appearances, seeking authenticity in our relationships, choices, and selves. Two timeless stories—a classic fable and an episode from the Ramayan -illuminate this enduring lesson, guiding us toward discernment and clarity.

The Fable of the Foolish Stag.

Once, a stag gazed at his reflection in a clear stream, admiring his magnificent antlers and their splendid beauty. Yet, he despised his slender legs, deeming them weak and unattractive. One day, as a hunter approached, the stag fled, his swift legs carrying him far from danger. But when he entered a thick forest, his prized antlers became entangled in the branches, trapping him. The hunter caught up, and the stag realized too late that the legs he scorned were his salvation, while the antlers he adored led to his downfall.

The stag’s story teaches us that what glitters—whether beauty, status, or wealth—may not hold true value. Instead, it’s often the overlooked or understated qualities that prove most reliable and meaningful.

The Story of Hanuman Ji and Kalanemi.

In the Ramayan, Hanuman Ji, the devoted servant of Lord Ram, exemplifies strength, loyalty, and sharp discernment. While on his mission to locate the life-saving Sanjivini herb, Hanuman encounters Kalanemi, a demon sent by Ravan to deceive him. Kalanemi disguises himself as a sage, offering hospitality and spiritual counsel to lure Hanuman into a trap. But Hanuman, guided by his unwavering focus and divine intuition, sees through the façade. Recognizing Kalanemi’s true nature, he swiftly defeats the demon and continues his mission.

This story reminds us that not everyone who appears virtuous or kind has pure intentions. Like Hanuman, we must cultivate discernment to see beyond charming words or polished exteriors.

Seeing Beyond the Surface.

The saying “All skin teeth eh laugh” captures the essence of these stories. A smile, like glittering gold, can mask ulterior motives or shallow worth. To live authentically, we must look deeper in our personal relationships, professional endeavours, and self-reflection. Here are practical steps to cultivate discernment:

1. Pause and Reflect: Before trusting someone or something new, assess their actions, not just their words or appearance.
2. Value Substance Over Style: Prioritize qualities like integrity, kindness, and reliability over superficial charm or material allure.
3. Trust Your Intuition: Like Hanuman, listen to your inner voice when something feels off, even if it looks appealing on the surface.
4. Practice Gratitude for the Unseen: Appreciate the quiet strengths in yourself and others, like the stag’s legs, that carry you through challenges.

Scriptural Insight: Hanuman Ji’s Discernment

Hanuman’s encounter with Kalanemi highlights the power of spiritual clarity. His devotion to Lord Ram and his mission kept him grounded, allowing him to see through deception. In Ramayan, Hanuman’s unwavering focus contrasts with those swayed by flattery or illusion. This reminds us that anchoring ourselves in faith and purpose sharpens our ability to discern truth from falsehood.

Practical Application.

To live with wisdom and authenticity, pledge to look beyond the glitter. Embrace these practices:

• Set Authentic Intentions: Focus on goals that reflect your true values, not societal pressures or flashy trends.
• Cultivate Genuine Connections: Surround yourself with people who demonstrate sincerity through their actions, not just their words.
• Forgive, but Don’t Forget: Learn from past deceptions without letting them cloud your trust in others.
• Embrace Humility: Like the stag, recognize that true strength often lies in what’s understated, not what’s ostentatious.

Conclusion: Seek the Gold Within.

“All skin teeth eh laugh” serves as a powerful reminder. Just as the stag learned the cost of valuing appearances and Hanuman saw through Kalanemi’s disguise, we too must seek the gold of truth and substance. Let go of the temptation to chase what merely glitters, and instead, pursue what shines with lasting value—authenticity, integrity, and purpose.

A Prayer from Faithful Insights to You: May you walk with the wisdom to discern truth and the courage to embrace what truly matters. Jai Shri Ram! Jai Shri Hanuman!