Key Words
Language is so powerful, so direct, yet equally mysterious, as each word we speak, write or think can take on its own subtle meaning for each of us. A word is universal, yet individual at the same time, for the process of defining a word, and extracting its meaning or intention, is as multi-faceted as the human race itself.
The following list of words have remained important and relevant during my life. Benchmarks or cornerstones, I’m not sure exactly what to call them, which is probably for the best, as those things which touch our heart and soul are lessened by the use of such labels.
Love
Honor
Truth
Respect
Passion
Divinity
Honesty
Humility
Diligence
Integrity
Kindness
Resilience
Tolerance
Humanity
Patriotism
Generosity
Spirituality
Forgiveness
Compassion
Authenticity
Commitment
Sustainability
Transparency
Responsibility
Consciousness
Accountability
I hope to touch on each of these words while on the journey of exploring Global Patriot, for it is within the understanding of such words, and the embodiment of their true meaning, that we can become something far better than that which we are today.
What words resonate with you, and what words are missing from the list?
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I too enjoyed reading you list Mark. At each word I spent a moment to reflect the meaning, feeling, and my personal history with it. This experience and reflection proved to be a unique, unexpected, yet rewarding exercise.
My addition would be passion. Passion for life, passion for what I believe in, passion for my goals, friends, family, passion for everything I do. Having passion flow through me and around me.
Can’t imagine how I left Passion off the list, but I did, and it now assumes its rightful place on the page. Without passion we don’t fully appreciate the beauty of our experience. Thank you!
I might add ‘resilience’ – the ability of a community or individual to bounce back or even thrive in response to adversity.
I love that word Liz, and will include it in the list, as it implies our ability to remain grounded in what we believe, even in times of adversity – thank you!
This is a humbling list of keywords, Mark – and one we’d all do well to try to live by. That said, I’ve long had a problem with the words (and, indeed, the notion of) patriot, patriotic and patriotism – because of the implied nationalistic overtones and male dominance – but your concept of a Global Patriot strikes a chord. I’m a citizen of the Earth and never define myself in terms of race or regional identity. I would, however, be happy to be considered as a patriot of the planet! Thanks for inviting me to ‘join the conversation’
That’s exactly what Global Patriot is about, being a global citizen, without regard to gender, race, nationality, religion or political persuasion. If you think about the aspects of devotion, dedication and defense – just substitute ‘planet’ for ‘nation’ – we have the opportunity to reclaim what patriot used to mean in days gone by. Thanks for your astute comments and insight, and welcome to the conversation.