Awareness

Definitions: (1) having knowledge or realization; conscious; cognizant; (2) informed; alert; (3) keenly perceptive Synonyms: acquainted, apprised, sensible Quote: The more decisions that you are forced to make alone, the more you are aware of your freedom to choose. — Thornton Niven Wilder (1897–1975) American playwright Reflection: We travel through life no matter what; the … Read more

Backbone

Definitions: (1) having a firm and resolute character; stability of purpose; (2) the most substantial or sturdiest part; the foundation Synonyms: courage, determination Quote: To succeed in life, you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone. — Reba Nell McEntire (1955) American singer

Balance

Definitions: (1) mental and emotional steadiness; (2) possessing mental or physical poise; (3) in a state or position of equilibrium or equal relationship; equipoise; (4) in harmony or proportion; (5) the ability to weigh opposing issues; deliberating or pondering ideas and coming to an overview position See also: Symmetrical Synonyms: adjusted, counterpoised, equalized Admonition: If … Read more

Awake

Definitions: (1) aroused or active; (2) conscious or aware; (3) to stir up; excite; invigorated with new life Synonyms: animated, incited, provoked, stimulated Quotes:• The sleeper must awaken. — Frank Herbert (1920-1986) Dune • Every time a cell becomes more awake within us, God becomes fuller. — Linda Ohlson Graham (1947 – ) American Poet … Read more

Aware

Definitions: (1) having knowledge or realization; conscious; cognizant; (2) informed; alert; (3) keenly perceptive Synonyms: acquainted, apprised, sensible Quote: The more decisions that you are forced to make alone, the more you are aware of your freedom to choose. — Thornton Niven Wilder (1897–1975) American playwright Reflection: We travel through life no matter what; the … Read more

Autonomous

Definitions: (1) undertaken or carried on without outside control; self-contained; (2) independent; self-governing; free; (3) acting in accordance with one’s moral duty rather than one’s desires Derivation: Greek, “having its own laws” Quote: Without free, self-respecting, and autonomous citizens there can be no free and independent nations. Without internal peace, that is, peace among citizens … Read more

Available

Definitions: (1) one who is willing or qualified to do something or to assume a responsibility <available for service>; (2) suitable or prepared for use; at hand; (3) readily obtainable; accessible Quotes:• When the preferable is not available, the available becomes preferable. — Israelmore Ayivor (1989-) Ghanaian Youth Leadership Coach • Common sense is one … Read more

Authoritative

Definitions: (1) having or proceeding from accurate knowledge; (2) asserting control; commanding Balancing Quality: parental Too Far: dictatorial Quote: We all dream dreams of unity, of purity; we all dream that there’s an authoritative voice out there that will explain things, including ourselves. — Junot Diaz (1968-) Dominican-American writer Symbols: 1) the fist; 2) the … Read more

Auspicious

Definitions: (1) a high-minded attitude; (2) a promise of good fortune; encouraging activity; prosperous opportunity Derivation: Sanskrit, “kind,” “gracious”  Synonyms: advantageous, favorable, lucky, propitious, successful Quote: Just as treasures are uncovered from the earth, so virtue appears from good deeds, and wisdom appears from a pure and peaceful mind. To walk safely through the maze … Read more

Authentic

Definitions: (1) worthy of acceptance or belief <an authentic idea>; genuine; real; (2) approved by authority; trustworthy; reliable; (3) true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character; unique Synonyms: credible, faithful, official, original Quote: The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love, and to … Read more