Forget the Past (phrase) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign “forget the past, put it behind oneself” (waiho a muri ki muri) conveys the idea of letting go of previous experiences or memories and moving forward in life. It’s commonly used in the NZ Deaf community during discussions about personal growth, healing, or advice to focus on the present and future. This sign encourages a positive mindset and is particularly relevant in conversations about overcoming challenges.

How to Sign “Forget The Pastput It Behind Oneselfwaiho A Muri Ki Muriphrase; Verb” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands open, palms facing forward, approximately shoulder-width apart.
2. Bring your hands toward your chest, then move them outward and slightly backward as if pushing something away from you.
3. As you move your hands back, slightly tilt your head and express a facial expression that conveys letting go or relief.
4. Finish with your hands returning to a neutral position at your sides, signifying that you have released the past.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use the appropriate facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the emotional weight of the sign.
• Not moving the hands far enough away from the body, which can make the sign less impactful.
• Using a flat hand shape instead of an open hand, which may confuse the meaning of the sign.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “forget the past” emphasizes the physical action of pushing away memories, while in ASL, the sign may focus more on the concept of forgetting without the same physical gesture. This highlights the visual and spatial nature of NZSL, influenced by its unique cultural context.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – Referring to a group or multiple people.
• (Be) Careful – A sign for caution or being mindful.
• (Be) Passive – Sign indicating a passive or non-active state.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use this sign in sentences like, “I need to forget the past and move on,” by incorporating it with other signs that indicate your personal experiences.

Are there regional variations for this sign in New Zealand?

While the sign is generally consistent across New Zealand, some regional dialects may emphasize different facial expressions or slight variations in hand movements.

What are some signs that are similar to this one?

Signs like “let go” or “move on” convey similar meanings and can be used in conjunction with this sign to enhance the message.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to observe your hand movements and facial expressions. Watching native signers and mimicking their actions can also be very helpful.

Can I use this sign in a formal setting?

Yes, this sign can be used in both formal and informal settings, especially when discussing topics related to personal development and emotional well-being.

How does this sign relate to Māori culture?

This sign encourages the idea of healing and moving forward, which resonates with Māori concepts of growth and resilience, often reflected in their storytelling and traditions.