Cross my heart Definition: To make a solemn promise or vow, often followed by “and hope to die.” Synonyms: I swear, on my word, I promise, by my honor, pinky swear Antonyms: No promises, non-committal, uncertain, evasive
Mark Twain: “A man who is sure about his promises is one who puts his honor in someone else’s trust.”
Proverbs:
- “A promise is only as good as the person who makes it.”
- “Swear to tell the truth or don’t make promises you can’t keep.”
Related Terms:
- Pinky Swear: A more visual and often used by children to solidify a promise.
- Scout’s Honor: Originating from the Boy Scouts, signifying a serious promise.
- Swear an Oath: Typically a formal promise, sometimes involving legal or declarative contexts.
Essential Literature & Media:
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee – explores themes of honesty and moral integrity.
- “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” by J.K. Rowling – the Unbreakable Vow between Snape and Narcissa Malfoy.
- “The Princess Bride” directed by Rob Reiner – loads of promises and vows sprinkled throughout.
- 🎶 Song: “Pinky Swear” by Carly Rae Jepsen: when promises can’t be broken.
Inspirational Quote: “At the root of all promises—including cross-my-heart promises—is a seed of faith in each other’s honesty.”
Thought-provoking Movie:
- “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” – Frodo’s promise to destroy the One Ring; how far can one’s word take them?
Fanciful Fiction: Imagine an island where breaking a promise means getting chased around by tiny, yet ferocious, unicorns holding you to your “cross my heart” vows!
Quiz Time!
Farewell from S. Lynn Saymore 📚:
“If your words are your bond and your promises are golden, you’ll find your heart—and those of others—unchorn by the tides of doubt.”
