Rather than continuously dwelling upon life’s negative aspects, as we are constantly encouraged to do through the media and otherwise, let’s focus instead upon some of life’s more positive and “seaworthy ships.”
Of all the words in the English language, the word “ship” must surely be among the most adaptable and frequently used–with related and unrelated meanings.
The word itself is defined as a large, seaworthy vessel, but also refers to a ship’s officers and crew. The word ship also denotes the transporting of goods by air, land and sea. But far more prolific are the meanings when used as a suffix as…
Membership–a body of members-at-large of any organization; religious, social, civic or other particular group of like-minded individuals.
Friendship–the increasingly rare state of being just friends, a state often lost between males and females in particular as the situations gradually upgrade into …
Relationship–a closer connection between friends that often gets entwined into emotional entanglements from which friendships seldom survive.
Hardship–suffering or deprivation; a state of being deprived of the necessities for mere existence; sometimes unavoidable but too often self-imposed through bad judgment, poor arrangement of priorities, our inability or refusal to accept certain realities.
Stewardship–the office, duties and obligations of one whose individual responsibility is to manage life and/or property with proper regard for the rights of others.
Trusteeship–The act of legally being entrusted with funds or property to be administered for the benefit of another…and the beat goes on and on…
Regardless of the word to which it is attached, however, the “ship” suffix generally places a common denominator to it that adds the power of added responsibility. How this additional weight is handled is the determining factor of one’s self-esteem–or lack of, that triggers internal discontent and unrest.
It all reverts to the original definition of the word ship as a large, seaworthy vessel. If the vessel is not seaworthy it will inevitably sink taking with it whatever or whomever is emotionally attached…Which brings us to:
Survivorship–The ability to live and/or perform (physically, mentally or spiritually) beyond the ordinary or expected human life span, against all odds. And lastly there is…
Fellowship–Community interest and companionship: a body of fellows, communion and friendliness, the ideal ship producing the most favorable conditions and results!
“It behooveth man to adhere tenaciously unto that which will promote fellowship, kindliness and unity,” we read in the Baha’i Holy Writings, for “Ye are the fruits of One Tree and leaves of One Branch. Therefore… Deal ye one with another with utmost love and harmony. with friendliness and fellowship!” (Investigate!)
