Lundagin mo, baby!

A couple days ago, I saw a button pin from Atenista friends. It says “Lundagin mo, beybeh”. It was apparently made by college students as a reminder of the popular line from a well-loved Philosophy teacher in Ateneo.

“Lundagin mo, baby!”

I’ve heard that line before. I can’t remember when or who said it. But it always reminds me of Rico J. Puno and Dina Bonevie. I really don’t know why.

I did some internet research and I found out that this was a very popular phrase back in the 60’s, popularized by a DJ, Johnny De Leon.

Lundagin is from the root word, lundag, which means to jump.

Jump: To spring off the ground or other base by a muscular effort of the legs and feet.

It entails effort since the aim is to spring off the ground. So jumping is not just regular everyday activity. It involves energy and will to lift oneself off the ground. Therefore, if one is not willing to expend energy, one cannot take off. In short, mag-effort ka, kapatid!

Jump: To move suddenly and in one motion

It means moving with speed. You cannot jump in slow motion, that’ll defy the laws of gravity. So when jumping, it has to be quick, fast and precise. Therefore, pag babagal-bagal ka, maiiwan ka sa kangkungan.

Jump: To move involuntarily, as in surprise

Like a hunter, you have to take the victim by surprise. Grab it suddenly, leaving it no other choice but to give in. Jumping involves an element of shock and astonishment. In short, kailangan may gulpe-de-gulat.

So what does ‘Lundagin mo, baby’ really mean? It means jumping out suddenly, and with a lot of effort from our comfort zones. Much like bunjee jumping, it entails taking risks, and letting go of our fears. It means not being afraid to lose control and be vulnerable.

So whatever it is that we want to jump into – a new career, relationships, commitment – remember to make the jump as high and as lively as possible.

Carpe diem! Sieze the day!

Jump and jump high!

Lundagin mo, beybeh!


07:20 pm
19 December 2008
Santiago City