Treat Everyone as Your Equal

After opening my restaurant in Texas, the online magazine Austin Eater visited us and wrote an article about Woko Loco. The article mistakenly suggested that the term 'Woko Loco' was a play on the word 'woke.' In reality, the name came out in a much simpler way. We used woks – those rounded metal pans – for cooking. Woko Loco. Get it? It's as straightforward as that. The name rhymes and is catchy. And while the company's values were influenced by the Yogi philosophy, the name itself wasn't.

In today's world, the term 'woke' is frequently tossed around, especially in political discourse. It's often used mockingly, portraying those defined by it as naive or overly optimistic. Some employ it as a defense against companies or individuals advocating for progressive values, improved human rights, and equality for all races.

It's sad to witness the term 'woke' being used against well-intentioned companies and individuals who are striving to make the world a better place.

And, of course, there's the other side to this matter. Some individuals consider themselves 'woke' and act as if they were holier-than-thou, looking down on people who haven't yet embraced these ideas. As Urban dictionary eloquently explains: “people started using this term recklessly, assigning this term to themselves or someone they know to boost their confidence and reassure them that they have the moral high grounds and are fighting for the better world.”

Avoid both extremes. Instead of rushing to label, recognize the genuine intentions of those working towards positive change. Why undermine individuals who are genuinely striving to contribute to the greater good?

And rather than feeling superior to your fellow humans because you may be more spiritually advanced, treat everyone as your equal. Claiming to be 'woke' while criticizing others for not being 'woke' implies a lack of true awakening.

Together, we have the capacity to create a world where meaningful progress and kindness prevail. The next time you hear or use the term 'woke,' remember that all humans are on their unique journeys, each advancing at their own pace. Each person is a necessary and essential part of the great machinery of life.

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