“Honorable?”

According to Merriam-Webster, “honorable” is defined as, “Deserving of respect or high regard. Entitled to honor or respect. Consistent with a reputation that is not tarnished or sullied. Characterized by integrity and guided by a keen sense of duty and ethical conduct.”

I’m good with that definition.

But what’s the deal with the meaning of “honorable,” you may be asking?

What’s my point?

My point concerns how our government chooses to use, and employ, the word “honorable.”

I’m sure we’re all familiar with the term “honorable,” as it is used in our court systems. 

If you’ve ever been in court, for whatever reason, you’ll hear the presiding judge announced as ”the honorable,” Judge John Smith, or “the honorable,” Judge Mary Jones, for example.

I’m not sure if they do this as a reminder to the judge that they’re supposed to be “honorable,” or what, but I’d prefer they drop this presumptuous part of the title and allow me to be the judge as to whether they’re “honorable” or not.

On top of it all, they want everyone else in attendance in the courtroom to stand while the judge enters!

They can lose this too.

They don’t even make kids stand in school for the pledge of allegiance anymore for goodness’ sake!

Why are we supposed to stand for this person just because they’re a judge?

So, what…, they’re a judge?

We elected them, in most cases, or they were appointed by someone else we elected. 

They work for us.

We should not be asked to worship the ground they walk on.

Another observation I’ve noticed, concerning the use of the word “honorable” in government, is when politicians on committees, or people called to testify before Congress, are recognized with a name placard identifying them as “honorable” Mr. or Ms. Smith, or whatever.  

Again, I’m not sure if they do this as a reminder to the person that they’re supposed to be “honorable,” or what, but I’d prefer they drop this presumptuous part of the title and allow me to be the judge as to whether they’re “honorable” or not.

What really annoys me is when identify some of these people as “honorable,” when I know they’re anything but!

For example:

Unless you’re going to be honest about the description of a person’s reputation, we could do without this designation as well.

If you’re not already “following” me and you liked my blog(s) today, please choose to “follow” me, which will keep you up to date on all of my latest posts, and/or leave me a comment.  I value your feedback and I’d love to hear from you!

Thank you, MrEricksonRules.