We all know the dramatic effect of a well delivered inspirational speech. Every great orator can craft rhetoric, construct a compelling argument, and present a performance that motivates people to action.
This post is not about that. It is about one simple word spoken casually.
About 30 years ago I returned to visit Chicago, my hometown. I had lived in various locations in the United States but always made a point to come back and touch bases with my family and childhood friends. This particular incident happened at my youngest sister's home. We were chatting in her kitchen.
(as background, I had lived a "colorful" life up to that point)
In the middle of our conversation she said "I've always thought you are noble." I took it as a compliment and was surprised she thought of me in those terms. Our discussion ended, we went about our lives, it seemed insignificant.
Only now in retrospect I can report what a critical message she provided. In the subsequent years my behavior and growth has been shaped by many forces. I didn't want to go to jail, I didn't want to be an asshole, I didn't want to hurt anybody, or cause too much damage anywhere. I have more or less succeeded.
But more than anything, that one word "noble" lingers in my consciousness. I've stayed cool in large part, because I didn't want to disappoint my youngest sister.
I figured I should finally let her know....
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