Being

Being wise also means recognizing what a rare occurrence life is in the universe; and therefore, how precious. 

Being good also means that you always recognize a remote human possibility, even in your worst enemies.

Being brave also means that you are ready to stand your ground against those that would destroy people, things, ideas and principles that you value dearly. But recognizing that you do so out of necessity. Because the circumstances demand it, not out of hatred. 

Being kind also means that you understand that vengeance is a snake eating its tail, and that the important thing is to prevent those that would do harm from being able to act on it. 

Being empathetic also means recognizing the frailty of life, that people carry invisible scars, and so you try to temper your language with civility. But when civility is weaponized against you, you draw a line and hold it, because empathy does not mean naivety.

Understanding what it means to live in a liberal democracy, you expect, and even celebrate, the free expression and clash of ideas. Because you see it as the most effective way to identify flaws, quickly and efficiently, in this ever-developing system, so that you can then work to correct them. You see this clearly as the only reliable path to improvement and a healthier democracy.

Being a good citizen is also an ongoing exercise in prudence, patience and tolerance. It means you are willing to listen, to understand, and to see clearly the futility of battling paper tigers.

But some of us are none of those things.