Educator, theologian, and philosopher George Walter Fiske (1852–1917) teaches that there are eleven great verbs of life—each one a cornerstone of human experience. These verbs capture the essence of what it means to truly live, each representing a power, a capacity, and a responsibility that shapes our existence.
“I am” signifies the power of self-knowledge, the foundation upon which everything else rests. It is the recognition of our own existence, our identity, and our ability to define ourselves in a world full of external expectations.
“I think” represents the power to investigate, to engage with the world through the mind. It is our intellectual capacity to question, analyze, and seek understanding in an often complex and uncertain world. Thinking leads to learning, and it is through this active process that we begin to shape our thoughts and ideas.
“I know” embodies the power to master facts. Knowledge is a tool that empowers us to make sense of the world around us. Through knowledge, we gain control, and with mastery, we can move forward with confidence, making informed decisions about our lives.
“I feel” reflects the power to appreciate, to value, and to love. It is the emotional center of our being—the ability to connect with the world on a deeper, more personal level. Feeling enables us to form relationships, to empathize with others, and to experience the fullness of human existence.
“I wonder” represents the power of reverence, curiosity, and worship. It is the spirit of inquiry that drives us to search for meaning and purpose in life. Wonder invites awe, the willingness to be humbled by the mysteries of the universe, and the desire to explore what lies beyond the known.
“I see” captures the power of insight, imagination, and vision. It is the capacity to look beyond the surface, to perceive things not just as they are, but as they could be. Seeing with insight allows us to envision a future, a goal, or a possibility, and to begin to chart the course toward it.
“I believe” speaks to the power of adventurous faith. Belief is the foundation of hope, a trust in something greater than ourselves. It’s the courage to take risks, to move forward despite uncertainty, and to hold on to values that transcend the immediate and tangible.
“I can” embodies the power to act and the skill to accomplish. It is the manifestation of our abilities, the confidence that comes from knowing we have the power to bring our intentions into reality through effort and perseverance.
“I ought” represents the power of conscience, the moral imperative that guides us toward ethical action. It is the inner voice that tells us what is right, a call to act with integrity and responsibility, often in service to something greater than ourselves.
“I will” speaks to the power of duty, loyalty, and resolve. It is the strength to commit to a course of action, to stay the course even when challenges arise. Willpower is the force that drives us to follow through on our commitments and responsibilities.
“I serve” is the power to be useful, to offer devotion to a cause. Service is the act of contributing to the well-being of others, to a greater community or purpose. It is a selfless act, driven by a desire to make a difference in the world, however large or small.
None of us can say that we have truly lived until we can say, with all honesty and humility, that we know and embody these eleven life verbs. They are more than just words; they are guiding principles that allow us to navigate the complexities of life with depth and purpose. These eleven little words carry within them immense potential—each one a key to unlocking the full capacity of the human spirit. When we master them, we unlock the power to live meaningfully, to contribute to the world, and to experience life in its fullest, most profound form.
