In Libya today, we are witnessing a worrying phenomenon: the spread of a culture of excessive and exaggerated praise. “Honorary shields” have been transformed from a symbol of excellence and achievement into a mere tool for flattery, “kissing up,” and satisfying egos.
Undoubtedly, recognizing outstanding individuals is essential to encourage creativity and innovation. However, what we see on many occasions is excessive praise that diminishes the value and meaning of this tradition. We see “shields” distributed indiscriminately at trivial events as if they were merely a means of courtesy and “sweet talk.”
These practices lead to counterproductive outcomes. They diminish the value of hard work and genuine achievement and encourage the pursuit of empty appearances instead of achieving tangible goals.
Our society needs to reconsider the concept and criteria for bestowing honors. We must focus on appreciating real achievements and tangible contributions to the development of society. We must restore the true meaning of honors as a mean to stimulate creativity and excellence, not as a tool for hypocrisy and flattery.
True progress is not measured by the number of empty “shields” and “titles,” but by the extent of societal development and the achievement of well-being for its individuals. Let us focus on building a society that values hard work and genuine achievement, a society where “shields” become a symbol of excellence and perseverance, not flattery and hypocrisy.