Word of the Day: Intention

in-ten-tion / in-ˈten(t)-shən   noun  

1. an instance of deciding to do something; resolve

Each decision we make, each action we take, is born out of intention. Sharon Salzberg, 1952-  

2. purpose; goal or object

The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the greatest intention. Khalil Gibran, 1883-1931  

3. usually plural, sense of purpose which affects conduct

Hell is paved with good intentions, roofed in with lost opportunities. Portuguese Proverb   3a. purpose regarding marriage When meeting his daughter’s new boyfriend, a father will often ask, “What are your intentions with my daughter?”  

4. significance

Writing must always have intention because words have power. Suheir Hammad, 1973-  

5. the object of one’s prayers

In centering prayer, the sacred word is not the object of the attention but rather the expression of the intention of the will. Thomas Keating, 1923-2018