... there are many sham diamonds in this life which pass for real and, vice versa, many real diamonds which go unvalued. -- W. M. Thackeray
It's high praise to say that someone is "genuine - the real thing." We use the image of jewelry when we talk about character: "Pure gold - 14 karat - rings true - a diamond of the first water - a pearl." The qualities of beauty and rarity make gems precious to us, and by using the same language to describe people, we imply that real personal worth is equally beautiful, and equally rare.
Yet it's within everyone's grasp. We all agree on the valuable character traits: honesty, loyalty, openness, courage, humor, and the capacity for love. Everyone has them, and everyone can have them. Imitations won't do.
I needn't worry about whether someone else's qualities are genuine. I know what I admire and I have plenty to do polishing my own.
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Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. ~Dr. Seuss
Just wanted to say thanks for the posting needed to read that, especially the last part, I needn't worry about whether someone else's qualities are genuine. I know what I admire and I have plenty to do polishing my own.
That suits me to a tea, thanks again. Especially today.