Defining Your Character

The measure of a man's real character is what he would do if he knew he never would be found out.  ~Thomas Babington Macaulay

Character: one of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an individual.

Who are you when no one is around? Do you do what is right even when no one is looking?  Just because you have the right to do something, does it mean that it is right? How is your character defined? I have always been told that your true character comes out in adversity and your character is defined by how you act when you think no one is watching.

Character is defined in many situations.  We see a lot of defining moments in sporting events.  After a big loss, how does the team and individual athletes handle the challenge put before them?  This is a defining moment of character. They can either pull themselves up, dig in and support one another to make the best of the situation. OR...they can implode, blame and continue the downhill travel.  At this moment character becomes the foundation of the future.

In school and in the workplace character is tested daily with people and circumstances.  Character of the individual is what will make a situation better or worse. 

It is hard to always have a strong character.  There is a quote I love that reminds me to try my best...

"Your life may be the only Bible some people read."

What are the key elements to good character?

*Trustworthiness - don't lie, cheat or steal.  Be reliable, loyal and honest.  Stand by your family and friends.

*Respectful - Follow the Golden Rule, treat others as you wish to be treated.  Be considerate, tolerant and accepting.

*Responsible - Be accountable and disciplined.  Take responsibility for your actions.

*Fair - Be open-minded, don't place blame, be a good listener.

*Care - Be kind and compassionate.  Be forgiving and grateful.

*Citizenship - Be a good member of your community, be involved.  Cooperate, stay informed and respect authority.

Most importantly, remember your character defines who you are.

A man has to live with himself, and he should see to it that he always has good company.  ~Charles Evans Hughes