6th November 2024 - Forward
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In the UK, cities typically have heraldic crests and mottos. It can be
one of those interesting ways to see how a place sees itself. Often,
these mottos are in latin. Looks smart, old and all that.
The city of Birmingham decided to forego the latin. The motto is in
English and simply one word - Forward.
I actually find this inspiring. Most mottos are overly complicated and
hidden in that ridiculous use of a dead language. I admit, it gives me
some use of studying latin for 5 years in school. Yet, it means most
people are not able to appreciate what some men in the past thought
represented their hopes for a place. Birmingham is a relatively young
city. It has existed for yonks but only really been a city from the
late 1800s. It formed based on being the "city of a 1000 trades" split
between cottage industries and huge factories. Progress was a key part
of the city. It seems apt to use that progress as a motto.
I find that life can feel overwhelming. Who doesn't? I find it helps
to think that time can only go one way - forward. We cannot reverse
time and so there is little point in dwelling upon the past. Stuff
happens. The difference is in how you respond. Be angry, be upset.
However, time marches on regardless of you. Focus on what takes you
forward in life. Things will get better, even if that does not appear
possible at the moment. Make progress, make things better in which
ever small way you can and most importantly, look forward.
