Language Lessons For The Twelve Signs: Virgo

(There are those who will tell you that “astrology is a language.” If you know much about languages, you know that sometimes one language will come up with a word or phrase for a unique concept that other languages haven’t caught onto — but maybe should have. In that spirit, we present this series.)

The Sign: Virgo (August 23 – Sept. 22)

The Word: Kreng-jai (Thai)

Meaning: To have a considerate heart for another, even (possibly) at your own expense.

Example:

VIRGO’S FRIEND: (on the phone with Virgo) You know, you remind of something I heard someone say once: “People who put themselves on the line and sacrifice their own safety for the greater good and for others, and anyone in any profession whose concern is the welfare for other people instead of the individual, are inspiring and important. ”

VIRGO: Hey, that’s pretty profound. Who said that?

VIRGO’S FRIEND: Chris Hemsworth.

VIRGO: The actor? You mean… Thor?

VIRGO’S FRIEND: Yeah. I met him at that movie premiere you gave me your ticket for, and now he’s coming to pick me up. We’re going on a ride on his yacht! Thanks for covering for me at work. Anyway, that big stack of files on my desk are for month-end — they need it early this month, and it’s due by 3 PM. Oh, and you’ll have to pick up the boss’s dry cleaning at 2. We’re all really grateful for your kreng-jai! (Hangs up)

VIRGO: …yacht…?