Backbone

Definitions: (1) having a firm and resolute character; stability of purpose; (2) the most substantial or sturdiest part; the foundation Synonyms: courage, determination Idiom: Keep a stiff upper lip. Quotes:• To succeed in life, you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone. — Reba Nell McEntire (1955) American singer• You are … Read more

Awareness

Definitions: (1) having knowledge or realization; conscious; cognizant; (2) informed; alert; (3) keenly perceptive Synonyms: apprised, sensible Quotes:• The key to growth is the introduction of higher dimensions of consciousness into our awareness. — Lao-tse (6th Century BC) Chinese mystic philosopher• The more decisions that you are forced to make alone, the more you are … Read more

Aware

Definitions: (1) having knowledge or realization; conscious; cognizant; (2) informed; alert; (3) keenly perceptive Synonyms: apprised, sensible Quotes:• The key to growth is the introduction of higher dimensions of consciousness into our awareness. — Lao-tse (6th Century BC) Chinese mystic philosopher• The more decisions that you are forced to make alone, the more you are … 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 Patrick Herbert Jr. (1920-1986) Dune {1965}• Every time a cell becomes more awake within us, God becomes fuller. — Linda Ohlson Graham (1947-) American poet Admonition: … 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

Autonomous

Definitions: (1) undertaken or carried on without outside control; self-contained; self-guided; self-taught; (2) independent; self-governing; self-ruling; (3) acting in accordance with one’s moral duty rather than one’s desires; a self-starter Derivation: Greek, “having its own laws” Quotes:• Listen to the desires of your children. Encourage them and then give them the autonomy to make their … Read more

Authoritative

Definitions: (1) having or proceeding from accurate knowledge; (2) asserting control; commanding People Who Exemplify This Quality: Parents Too Far: dictatorial Quotes:• 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• You can delegate … 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

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

Attractive

Definitions: (1) appealing to a natural interest; exciting one’s emotional or aesthetic sense; (2) arousing interest or pleasure; alluring; charming; inviting Synonyms: engaging, fascinating, heart-stirring, prepossessive, winning Too Far: egotistical Quotes:• If you focus more on the inside, you’ll feel just as great about the outside. I feel attractive when I’m doing good and helping … Read more