After reading a response from one of the Blog comments for today and like the rest of you Blog readers, I've been reading a lot about what some have decided make for a good “politician”, “public servant” and of course “a board member”; but what about what makes for a good citizen? Have we gotten so outward looking and judgmental that we no longer do the necessary introspection that keeps us humane?
According to a survey conducted by American Profile, when asked What Makes A Good Citizen – here are some of the varied and poignant responses. Some shared philosophies of life, political views and religious convictions. Many wrote about the virtues of humankind: love, respect, graciousness, courage, kindness, loyalty and responsibility. They spoke of a citizen’s responsibility to vote, serve in the military, pay taxes, protect the environment and share one’s opinions.
And here are a few edited quotes I thought were most appropriate for this community:
“The qualities needed to be a good American are synonymous with those needed to be a good neighbor, good friend, good mate, good parent, good grandparent, or any other person. A good American must believe in themselves, their country, its goals and aspirations and defend freedom anywhere in the world.” —Lester C. Van Bibber III of Lincoln, Ill.
“A good American uses the freedom they have been given to make life better for others; working for the common good is a hallmark of a good American. A good American knows that individual rights spring from the roots of justice and are nurtured by respecting one another’s equality.”—Einar Swenson of Blackfoot, Idaho.
“A good American is someone who thinks more highly of others than he does himself, who shows kindness to all people, who is humbled by the freedoms he enjoys, and who stoops to pick up a piece of litter instead of passing it by.” —Diane M. Pankonin of Oregon City, Ore.
“The best citizen puts ethics before law, law before gain, nation before self.”—David A. Todd of Bella Vista, Ark.
“We must be truthful, straight and honest; respect our freedoms and those of others; be trustworthy; ...” —Gentlemen’s Gathering Group, whose members reside at Golden Ours Convalescent Home in Grant, Neb.
“A good American is a person, who is ready, willing and able to be and do all he or she can to promote, protect, defend and support the basic freedoms of all Americans regardless of their color or creed.”—Peggy L. Dildine of Ardmore, Tenn.
“A good American shows respect and tolerance…He voices concern for questionable actions in a sane and respectful manner. He builds his country up. He thanks God everyday that he lives in America.” —Pat Loring of Columbia, Calif.
“A good citizen is the person who always gives more of himself or herself than is received.”—Jean Holmes of Tylertown, Miss
“A good American is a civic-minded person… has confidence…accepting and respectful of the many human differences that make up our country and make our country great.” —Edith Brown of Espanola, N.M.
“A good American citizen realizes he has been blessed by his country and seeks to give back by serving his fellow citizens. He loves his homeland despite its imperfections and embraces what makes this nation great: the right of every citizen to seek change for the better.”—Gail Peterson of Watts, Okla.
“A good American citizen knows that freedom is not free. They also know that the United States is the best place to be.” —Robbie Peterman of Onaway, Mich
“Someone who understands that freedoms are not free, who looks for opportunities to serve and not take, who encourages and lifts those who are less fortunate, who prayerfully chooses our elected officials, and whose legacies will include upright values.” —Cliff Todd of Carthage, Texas.
Interesting stuff!
Where do YOU fit in...
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