What Potentials/Qualities/Attributes Truly Set Us as 'Special' or "Worthwhile Beings?"?

Question

I offer no initial opinions here. I want to know what people really understand about themselves and the human equation in general. This question IS open-ended & one that demands real contemplation. I don't expect a 3-page essay but PLEASE, NO overly simplistic "one-liners." Even just a paragraph would seem rather "stingy" to me, so I ask that you qualify or explain or support your assertions. Lists are okay... and even encouraged, but I would prefer that you provide a brief example for each potential/quality/attribute listed. That's all.
I just want to "thank" the "true players" "in advance." Like my question about Human Idioms, this promises to bring smiles, laughter, and maybe even tears to each who read the entries. For those who give that special effort, I'd like to drop you a "thank you" email... but I've found that some leave no way for others in the community to contact them with "shows of appreciation..." that's unfortunate, but one's prerogative.

Answer 1

OK here is my humble offerings in point form where possible.

the ability to laugh
the ability to cry
the ability to laugh and cry simultaneously
the ability to choose to abandon ourselves to the simple more animal instincts we have
the ability to plan complexities
the ability to understand concepts
the ability to create lasting structures
the ability to think about what sets us aside as special
the ability to understand that what we see in a mirror is not all of who we are
the ability to choose whether to mate for life or choose to mate with subsequent partners or to not mate at all
the ability to choose to believe in angels, god, fairies, and ourselves
the ability to want, desire and yearn for things
the ability to communicate in writing
the ability to create stories from imagination
the ability to farm plants and animals for future use
the ability to choose whether to kill or not
the ability to create and understand legal systems

well that is my starter list.... what do others think??

Answer 2

IMO you should narrow down the parameters, as is this would require one of two possible answers

1- All the attributes of 'being human'.
or
2- An essay at least 3 pages long to simply list (not explain) the essence of humanity.

Answer 3

everyone is different. we were put here with our own special quirks and talents. the fact that no matter how simmalar two people are there will never be completly identical beings makes the world interesting and worth being on. our ability to make decisions and live like we think we should is a power we often take for granted