Character Matters
As we each pursue our goals and dreams for ourselves, our families and society, it is important to keep in mind that throughout history, humanity built its greatest societies and made its greatest accomplishments, through the work of numerous people living and working together in an environment of mutual respect and strong values. Conversely, some of humanities greatest atrocities can be traced to a breakdown in character and principles, where individuals pursuing their own self-interests failed to respect each other’s humanity.
Working together with respect for our individual differences, while requiring actions that are moral and ethical from each of our citizens, will lead to a strong society with a great future. “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” Character is the various aspects of a person’s behavior and attitudes that make up that person’s personality. Everyone has character traits, both good and bad. Experts at MIT have identified at least 638 individual personality traits. The character traits of most import are those relating to a person’s underlying values and beliefs - our internal compass that guides our decision making as we travel life’s journey. These character traits are the inward values that determine our outward actions.
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The Greek philosophers Aristotle and Plato regarded temperance, wisdom, justice, and courage as the four most desirable human character traits. Centuries later, these four would become known as the cardinal virtues; with faith, hope and charity being added as theological virtues.
Others concluded the core character traits to be: trustworthiness, respect for others, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. Still others look to the Cowboy Code of the American west or religious teachings. Regardless of origin, there is a certain consistency and commonality among these desirable character traits. In a humble attempt to encourage better character action, development and teaching, we have compiled in the links to the right some solid ideas from the great minds and researchers in this area throughout the centuries. This subject would not be complete without mention of the importance of forgiveness. Everyone makes mistakes from time to time. Most will fall short of our ideal character traits. But we must learn to forgive others, and to forgive ourselves, for our own good and the good of our society. “That old law about 'an eye for an eye' leaves everybody blind. The time is always right to do the right thing.” We wish you much happiness and success on your life journey. And may you find the strength to stay true to your own values as you travel your path.
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