Ցավդ տանեմ
LET ME TAKE YOUR PAIN
“Tsavt tanem” («ցաւդ տանեմ») is an often seen and heard Armenian saying that literally means: “let me take your pain.” You'll overhear it on the streets in random conversations, see it on car bumper stickers, and of course, cell phone cases. I have been told there are at least three different meanings for “tsavt tanem”: conveying endearment; sympathizing with someone’s plight; or poking gentle fun at someone’s shortcomings. In different context and intonations, "tsavt tanem" is quite versatile indeed and is perhaps my favorite Armenian phrase because it embodies the boundless generosity, good spirit, and a certain sense of belonging with Armenia. “Tsavt tanem” is both not completely translatable yet strangely universal at the same time, much like these enigmatic young creatives I had the good fortune to meet ...