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Symbols That Shape Us

Symbols and images have an extraordinary power to inspire us and to anchor us to our goals, desires, and values. Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by the way certain images seem to “speak” on our behalf—how they can express emotions that words sometimes fail to capture. Truly, a single image can be worth far more than a thousand words.

Among all the symbols that have stayed with me through the years, the fleur-de-lis has been one of the most meaningful. I still remember learning about it for the first time in school. We were told that it represented French royalty, purity, power, light, faith, and wisdom. It’s also the emblem of scouting and appears in countless shields and coats of arms. But the meaning that has always resonated with me most deeply is nobleness—not nobility.

When we look up the definition of nobleness, we find that it “refers to the quality of having high moral character—such as courage, generosity, and honor—or possessing an elevated, dignified, majestic, or refined nature. It signifies greatness of mind and spirit, often associated with unselfishness and superior virtue.”

To me, nobleness means striving to maintain a pure, open heart and a steady moral compass. It means trying—truly trying—to act kindly and correctly, no matter the circumstances. It’s choosing to behave nobly even when no one expects it of me, and even when no one is watching. It’s extending elegance, care, and kindness not only to people, but also to animals, objects, and life itself.

If I had to choose a personal seal, the fleur-de-lis would be the closest to it. Over time, it has become both an inspiration and a reminder of the ideal I want to embody—one I know I’m still far from mastering.

A few years ago, while searching for a mirror in a consignment store, I was hoping to find one that felt like it “had my name on it.” Then I spotted it: a beautiful mirror adorned with four fleurs-de-lis. I couldn’t believe my eyes. It felt perfect—not just a place to see my reflection, but a constant reminder of the kind of heart and character I want to cultivate. A symbol of my commitment to pursue nobleness in every action I take, every word I speak, and every thought I allow to grow.

And you? If you had to choose a personal seal—an image that captures the essence of who you aspire to be—what would it be?

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  1. AnonymousFebruary 1, 2026 at 8:51 AM

    Thank you so much Monica. Ever so inspiring!!!!
    Myself... probably a bird... waking everyday choosing to carry on sowing nature, and love for it, wherever I am guided.

    ReplyDelete

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