Sharing the Ascension Experience
Definitions: (1) possessing the ability to change; (2) exhibiting a striking alteration in character, appearance, or condition Derivation: Greek, “transformation” Quote: The hardest thing for a man to do is to change long-standing prejudices of belief, but to succeed in doing it is a test of one’s humanity. — Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) American polymath [eight … Read more
Definition: (1) compellingly fascinating; irresistibly attractive; spellbinding; (2) holding the attention of someone to the exclusion of all else Derivation: Franz Anton Mesmer (1734-1850) German physician Quote: Most people, using everything they have in real life, cannot take hold of you the way a talented writer can without even being there. Talent is the ability … Read more
Definitions: (1) full of fun and laughter; lively and mirthful; joyous; (2) marked by cheerfulness or festivity Synonyms: blithe, jocund, jolly, jovial, sportive, sprightly, vivacious, merry-andrew Note: The term “merry-andrew” <one whose business it is to make fun of others> is said to have originated with one Andrew Borde (c. 1490-1549), a physician in … Read more
Definitions: (1) worthy of notice because of superior qualities; (2) deserving fame or happiness as a reward for service; praiseworthy for exceptional action; (3) of intrinsic value Derivation: Latin, “to earn, gain, or deserve” Quotes: • Charms strike the sight, but merit wins the soul. — Alexander Pope (1688–1744) English poet• True merit, like a … Read more
Divine Definitions: (1) Disposed to forgive in perfect measure; (2) Willing to pardon; sympathetic; (3) Giver of hope and granter of rest; (4) Ready to show pity; compassionate; (5) Eager to relieve suffering; kindhearted; (6) Caregiver; the good shepherd See Also: Just Comment: One of our current human definitions of mercy is to let someone … Read more
Definitions: (1) special or important experiences worthy of remembering; (2) worthy of being kept in mind; illustrious; (3) celebrated; distinguished; famous; notable; striking Synonyms: conspicuous, extraordinary, great, prominent, remarkable, unforgettable Familial Qualities: • Resonant: The ability to evoke or suggest enduring images, memories, or emotions. • Eidetic: aka: photographic memory – the ability the see … Read more
Definitions: (1) musical, agreeable to the ear; a sweet succession of sounds; (2) harmonious to the mind Quotes:• Silence is a profound melody, for those who can hear it above all the noise. — Socrates (4th Century BC) Greek philosopher• There’s a melody in everything. And once you find the melody, then you connect immediately … Read more
Definitions: (1) free from tension or discord; pleasant; agreeable; (2) made gentle, soft, and sympathetic by age or experience Quotes:• Sweet is the memory of distant friends! Like the mellow rays of the departing sun, it falls tenderly, yet sadly, on the heart. — Washington Irving (1783–1859) American essayist, historian, & diplomat• This is perhaps … Read more
Definition: in possession of a gentle disposition; serene; not inclined to resentment Derivation: Middle English, “soft, gentle” Synonyms: Meek implies a spirit that has been trained to moderation by discipline or suffering; mild implies a temper that is not easily provoked. Familial Qualities: forbearance, patience Too Far: weak Poetry: Meekness Holds no fear Is full … Read more
Definition: an intermediary; one who intervenes between parties at odds for the purpose of reconciling their differences; serving as a go-between and occupying a neutral position; able to see both sides and draw the sides together; bringing accord Quote: • Unsolicited advice is the junk mail of life. — Bern Williams (1929-2003) English moral philosopher … Read more