What exactly is an OATH?

When trying to define OATH, you can easily find something life this:

Definition: A solemn affirmation or declaration, made with a reverent appeal to God for the truth of what is affirmed.


Some examples of an OATH would include:

• The Pledge of Alligance
• Hippocratic Oath
• Oath of Citizenship 

When I think of what an Oath is I automatically visualize saying the Pledge of Alligance in grade school. Look towards the flag, place your right hand over your heart, and say a poem that you just learned but really don't know what your saying , so you start to say incorrect words that just sound right.

 

So, again...What exactly is an OATH?  If all I can think of are a bunch of words that have some sort of meaning that I don't really understand...that's not a true OATH! If I can not act or live through the OATH I make, it means nothing!

So, that reminds me of Mr. Steve Birdine's (AFLV speaker) presentation of Affirmation in Action! His message really stuck with me as he taught us how to be better leaders. The Affirmation/OATH that we make requires ACTION! This is especially applicable with the Oaths we make within our Sororities/and Fraternities.
When we make our oaths, do we know what we are affirming? Does it mean anything to us?
The answer SHOULD be yes. As leaders, I believe that it is important that we have an oath. Our oath lays out the guidelines we need to perform tasks and fulfill commitments. They serve a purpose, but we often forget that they exist. It is important that we live through our oath and recognize its purpose when we go out and serve our community. This way, we fully represent ourselves as leaders and outstanding members of our organizations as well as students at The Ohio State University!