Honor in America

The United States is a Nation founded on ideals. The founding fathers put forward in the wording and sentiment of our Constitution a belief they they knew to be unobtainable in their own time, with the hopes that generations of Americans coming after them would be able to fulfill their dream of a country that was truly just and righteous. They dreamed of a country where equality and freedom were the center of every decision, where justice was a virtue to be uplifted, and heroes were judged by their sacrifice and courage. They dreamed of an America with honor.

What is Honor

The standard definitions of honor are abstract and vague, i.e. “To be in a standing found honorable.” That’s not good enough.

For me, when I hear the word honor, I think about two things, Knights and Samurai. Yep. Romantically both have seven basic virtues, and I think we can adopt them to our modern lives.

Courage– We cannot let fear rule us. We can’t keep silent because we are afraid to sound stupid. We definitely cannot give up before we try because we are afraid to fail.

Rectitude– We must always do what we believe is right, fair, and just. We can’t allow ourselves to fall into the rut of doing what we have always done, just because it is easy.

Generosity- Always remember that we are one Nation. We might not always feel that way, be we reach our highest peaks and lowest valleys together. Never forget that no matter how bad your life seems, someone else has it worse. It is our duty to do what we can to help those below us.

Integrity– Say what you mean. Mean what you say. I’ve always enjoyed that the code of bushido doesn’t necessarily require the truth, but always requires sincerity.

Faith– You have to believe in something, otherwise, life is meaningless. In our world, that doesn’t need to be religious faith, as long as you have something, anything, to believe in.

Respect– We need to always remember to cherish everyone’s contributions to society. We all have a role to play, and they are all important to a Nation succeeding.

Resolve– We must continue, day after day, to strive to make ourselves better, and never waiver.

It is up to us to make sure we live with honor, everyday, in every moment. Its a difficult task, but one I believe we are up to.