Mañaina
“Mañaina — honor those who came before you, and your children will honor you.”
Reverence for parents, elders, and ancestors as the source of guidance and continuity across generations.
— Traditional Chamorro Wisdom, Guam
Source: Guampedia, "Chamorro Values" entry; Chamorro-English Dictionary (Topping, Ogo, Dungca)
More Proverbs from Guam
Inafa'maolek — make it good for everyone, or it is not good at all.
The foundational Chamorro value of interdependence: individual well-being is inseparable from the well-being of the whole community.
Respetu — respect your elders, and they will guide you well.
Respect for elders and family hierarchy is a central pillar of Chamorro social conduct.
Chenchule' — what is given returns, in its own season.
A system of reciprocal gift-giving and mutual obligation that binds Chamorro families and clans together across generations.
Mamahlao — carry yourself with humility, and shame will never find you.
A value of humility and restraint — avoiding boastfulness or bringing shame upon one's family.
Ekungok — listen twice before you speak once.
The value of attentive listening, particularly to elders, before acting or speaking.
Mannginge' — a child who honors the hand of the elder honors the whole family.
The traditional gesture of pressing an elder's hand to one's nose or forehead as a sign of respect and blessing.