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Becoming a citizen of the world requires a broad outlook, deep
understanding, and a judicious appreciation of other cultures. Although few
people can claim to be a citizen of the world, analyzing the lives of those who
have achieved this status reveals the important role played by education,
interactions with others, and writing.
Reading is a crucial component of broadening one's knowledge and
understanding of the world. Whether for pleasure, understanding, or improving
one's stock of knowledge, reading is essential. While school and college provide
a foundation, specialists such as doctors, lawyers, and engineers must continue
to read professional publications to stay up to date. Reading for pleasure is
equally important, as it allows individuals to explore their personal interests
and read books in different languages. The companionship of books is also
valuable, as books offer both pleasure and knowledge, and reading materials
related to a range of interests can make a person a full or an all-round man.
To become a citizen of the world, one must also learn to be a
good conversationalist. Good conversationalists possess certain qualities, such
as the ability to socialize, the gift of gab, and the ability to listen and not
offend others. At a higher level, participation in conferences is also critical
to global citizenship. Conferences provide an opportunity for individuals to
learn from others, put forth arguments convincingly, and have the patience to
hear others' opinions. These skills make a person a ready man.
Finally, writing is essential to becoming a citizen of the
world. When direct conversation is not possible, writing allows individuals to
communicate their thoughts and ideas. The right word in the right place
showcases the depth of the writer's knowledge and penmanship. Writing can take
many forms, from simple family letters to serious stories, poems, dramas,
business letters, and short articles. Whatever form it takes, writing reflects
the writer's personality and knowledge. In writing, one must express oneself in
plain, straightforward language and avoid redundancy. Each word and sentence
must take the reader forward, and great writers exhibit compactness, exactness,
and logical sequence. The power of the written word is evident in the great
books of the world, such as the Bible and the Communist Manifesto.
In conclusion, to become a good citizen of the world, one must
read extensively, learn from companions, and write. Through these three
activities, one can become a full, ready, and exact person. With a broad
outlook, deep understanding, and a judicious appreciation of other cultures, it
is possible to become a citizen of the world. |
