At a time when the nation continues to tear itself apart, it seems fitting that we pause and examine the most salient qualities that make up the true nature of the human imprint. Beyond the quest to become rich, famous, or powerful, what are the fundamental elements that when combined, form our individual identities? Who are we? What are the building blocks that ultimately become the essence of our personal being? How is it that we can possess an inner conscience and self-actualize our mannerisms, yet we too often fail to reconcile our self-centered, self-serving, selfish, greedy, calloused, aberrant behavior directed to our fellow human inhabitants?

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The initial stages of our development begin in early childhood and are built upon kindness towards others through the peaceful interactions of one human with another. This incipient behavior becomes the foundation for social awareness, sharing of our possessions, and love as an expression of common decency which when practiced is reinforced by positive expressions of parental approval. As we begin to mature, honesty through truth telling and trust in another person’s willingness to exhibit the same responsible actions are the basis for developing apathy for others less fortunate. We exhibit humility for a realization that we have limited capabilities. Our actions are that of integrity, righteousness, fairness, a sense of honor towards country and those who have exhibited extraordinary contributions to society, and probity in how one holds oneself among their peers. Maturity is becoming when we are able to demonstrate personal frugality in the day to day decisions we make and by expressed public rectitude. As properly functioning adults we exercise and assert ourselves through these combined social graces which provide a sense of dignity and self-worth that cannot be valued in monetary terms. We are reminded of these elements of decent human behavior that were practiced and handed down from generation to generation by our forefathers in what should be exemplified as some of the finest elements of a human imprint.