"Strong Deeds, Gentle Words"
The Maryland Way*
Johnine N. Clark, Esq., PRP
It’s a true pleasure to be a part of a group of professionals who can turn spirited discussion into structured progress — and who can do it without ever losing their place in the bylaws. That’s not just skill… that’s a superpower.
And where better to celebrate that than here in Maryland — home of the blue crab, the black-eyed Susan, and the only state flag so bold it looks like it was designed by a committee that actually agreed on something!
The Maryland Spirit of Order
This state has a proud history of leadership through structure. At Fort McHenry, discipline and order under pressure gave us the “Star-Spangled Banner.” In Annapolis, the Maryland State House — still in use after 250 years — reminds us that strong foundations, like strong rules, never go out of style.
And across the Chesapeake Bay, we see that good navigation — like good procedure — keeps everyone moving in the same direction, even when the waters get a little choppy.
A Lighthearted Truth
Now we’ve all been in that meeting where someone says, “Do we really need all these rules?”
To which every Maryland parliamentarian can smile and say, “Only if you want to get anything done before the crab feast.”
Because procedure isn’t about red tape — it’s about respect. It’s the Old Bay seasoning of good governance: just enough makes everything run smoothly; too much, and you’ll need to pass a motion for more water.
We, as professional parliamentarians, are the quiet heroes of democracy’s daily work — keeping order without silencing passion, guiding leaders without stealing the gavel, and making fairness look effortless.
Inspiration to Carry Forward
So as we look ahead, I offer a few Maryland-style motions:
I move that we keep the courage of Harriet Tubman — clear in direction, bold in purpose.
I move that we speak with the eloquence of Frederick Douglass — powerful words, respectfully delivered.
And I move that we lead like the Bay Bridge — steady, balanced, and built to connect.
Our state motto says it best: “Strong Deeds, Gentle Words.”
That’s not just Maryland’s motto — it’s the very spirit of parliamentary leadership.
Strong enough to maintain order; gentle enough to build consensus.
So let’s carry that motto forward — with steady gavels, fair minds, and just enough humor to keep our meetings productive and pleasant.
Thank you — and may all your motions be in order, your amendments friendly, and your debates brief enough to still make it to the crab cakes!
Johnine Clark, Esq., PRP, is president of the Henry M. Robert, III Unit and presented this Maryland Way inspirational thought to open MAP's 2025 Annual Meeting.
Thank you, President Clark, for sharing your gentle words!
Thank you, President Clark, for sharing your gentle words!
