If taken seriously, “Esse Quam Videri” may be the most important and consequential of all state mottos, especially if each North Carolinian takes it upon themselves to live up to its lofty promise every day. But it was all about enhancing and honoring virtue in every aspect of life — personal, business, church, civic and political. The “First in Flight” slogan on state license plates is an entirely appropriate way to commemorate their individual achievement on behalf of not only North Carolinians but humanity in general. Remembering what Cicero said and meant in “Esse Quam Videri” is a good way to join all North Carolinians together in a shared common cause and sense of duty and purpose individually and as a state. It is the one thing each North Carolinian can do every day solely of their own volition if they so choose to do.