Character draws admiration to us like a magnet. It’s because there’s not enough of it in the world and those who have it look like brilliant balls of light. Much like why there is death: it makes life more precious. A beneficial but scarce commodity is always prized. Something of value, like personal character, is well sought out, and snapped up quickly. Imagine everyone thinking of themselves as having value to the whole of society, yet retaining their own individuality.  One teacher of character can turn out into society 30 people of character. One high school of character can turn loose as many as 1,000 almost-adults into a community. One family of character can turn loose into the world a Toby Tanser, Jason McElwain, Talia Leman, Craig Kielburger, John-Henry Lambin, Suzie Tipton, Melissa Poe or Sabriye Tenberken.

A person of character is:

• A good person, someone to look up to and admire.
• Knows the difference between right and wrong, and always tries to do what is right.
• Sets a good example for everyone.
• Makes the world a better place.
• Lives according to the Six Pillars of Character*:

-Trustworthiness
- Respect
- Responsibility
- Fairness
- Caring
- Citizenship

*Six Pillars of Character

When we treat others with kindness and consideration, we show them that we value them as persons. This motivates them to remain in our lives, and as a result we continue to enjoy the rewards of connecting. Until three or four generations ago, a large amount of the support we needed came from our extended families. Today, as we often turn to friends, acquaintances, and even strangers for support and care, being likable can be a substantial advantage. An elementary but powerful truth to always keep in mind is that social skills strengthen social bonds. Social skills are thus an invaluable quality-of-life asset — in fact, they are nothing less than determinants of destiny.

Stymied, for several years now, on how my country got so far away from respect for one another, civility and reverence for every living creature. It just bugs the snot out of me. Who’s responsible for putting me in this situation; a situation of pondering, reminiscing of days past, and feeling nostalgic for those kinder, more gentler times of my youth. Who ever is responsible for this, I’d punch in the nose, right now.