One's nativity is not of his own choosing, but whatever it may

In the words of Paul P. Harris, "One's nativity is not of his own choosing, but whatever it may be, it is entitled to respect; and all nations have an honorable place in the world's family." These words resonate with a deep truth about the nature of humanity and the boundless value of each individual, no matter where they are born or to what circumstances they are subjected. Harris speaks not just of birth, but of the dignity inherent in every human being and the equal honor due to all nations, regardless of their size, wealth, or status in the world. His message calls upon us to recognize the humanity in each person, irrespective of their origin, and to extend a hand of respect to every nation, for we are all part of the same family.

The ancients understood well that birth was a matter beyond an individual's control. In ancient Greece, the philosopher Socrates taught that a person's worth was not determined by their lineage or birthplace, but by the virtue they cultivated. It is said that he was once criticized for his humble origins, but he responded by teaching that it was the soul that mattered, not the outward circumstances of one's birth. Similarly, in Rome, the idea of civic virtue was esteemed above aristocratic birth, and the greatest Romans were those who contributed to the welfare of the Republic, regardless of their origin. Harris, in his reflection, continues this ancient tradition by asserting that each person, no matter where they come from, deserves respect.

Consider the example of Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Persian Empire, whose birth was not of noble lineage, yet his respect for others and his ability to unite disparate peoples earned him a place of honor in history. Cyrus was known for his tolerance of different cultures and religions, and his respect for all peoples, regardless of their birth or background, is a shining example of how we should treat each other. Under his leadership, the Persian Empire became a beacon of diversity and unity, showing that nations, no matter how small or how great, have their place in the world’s family. Harris’s words mirror this sentiment, that every nation—regardless of its history or its place in the global hierarchy—has something valuable to offer.

This universal respect for nativity and the dignity of all people is reflected in the philosophy of Confucius, who believed that the honor of an individual came not from their birth, but from their actions. In his teachings, the respect due to any person is not dependent on their social status, but on the way they conduct themselves in the world. Confucius taught that the highest form of virtue was benevolence, which involved respecting others, whether they were born in a palace or in a humble village. Similarly, Harris stresses that each person, regardless of where they are born, deserves the same respect and honor.

Harris’s words also speak to the unity of the human race. He emphasizes that the world is a family, and as in any family, every member, whether they are near or far, rich or poor, plays an integral role in the whole. This view of human unity is echoed in the teachings of the great Mahatma Gandhi, who believed in the idea of universal brotherhood. Gandhi’s nonviolent philosophy was rooted in the conviction that all humans, regardless of their nationality, religion, or race, are interconnected. He believed that true peace could only come when people recognized their shared humanity and respected one another's dignity, no matter their origins.

The lesson that Harris imparts is as timeless as it is urgent: we must all, as members of the great family of nations, learn to respect the inherent worth of each individual and each nation. No matter where we come from, what we have been born into, or where our ancestors have walked, we are all bound by the same human condition. The respect we extend to others, regardless of their nativity, defines not only our character but also the future of the world we build together. Each nation, in its unique form, contributes to the global harmony, and we must honor each one as part of the human family.

In our own lives, let us take Harris’s wisdom to heart. Let us approach every individual with the respect they are due, regardless of their origins, and recognize that every nation, in its uniqueness, has a place of honor in the world’s story. Whether we are leaders, citizens, or simply individuals navigating our daily lives, let us ensure that we treat all people and all nations with the dignity that is their birthright. For in doing so, we contribute to a world where the bonds of humanity are stronger than the divisions of difference, and where every person, no matter where they are born, can walk with their head held high, knowing that they are part of a great and honorable family.