The future is predetermined by the character of those who shape it.
What an interesting notion this is. It's one that speaks to personal futures as well as our collective future. Our character informs our choices. And, the choices we make on a moment to moment basis contributes to (creates) the trajectory of our lives - both in terms of its probable content as well as in terms of our experience.
When I speak of "ideals in motion" this is what is meant. Our character is a declaration of our ideals. Our character is a summing of our beliefs, and our values and is, as well, a statement of what we value. I read a quote years ago by someone long forgotten to my memory that it is far easier to speak about our values than it is to live them. This is the difference between espoused values and values in practice - between our ideals and our comfort.
I actually think we are all living our values daily. Our behaviors (individual and national) are essentially the physical manifestation of our beliefs. Look around. Many of us aren't living our ideals on a daily basis. Ideals are inclusive, empowering, inspiring and ennobling. We don't seem to have much of any of these characteristics around us today. Character is expressed by all of us in our choices and our behavior. It is the single greatest determinant of our future. Living a life built on ideals versus expediency, on ideals versus partisanship compels choices that are challenging; choices that are heroic; choices that have the power to determine a future to be proud of. These aren't easy choices to make. And, doing so puts us outside the "norm". And, that may be something to strive for.
What would others say is your dominant character (hint: it's writ in your present)? Is it one of ideals? Is it one that causes others to take note? What are the defining ideals that, as elements of your character, you have the opportunity to live into daily? How do others feel about themselves when touched by your character? Are they empowered and inspired? Are you? What future would be created if you lived into your ideals on a moment to moment basis.
So fun article is! I agree the idea!
Posted by: Coach Bags | June 07, 2011 at 01:58 AM
Happiness is the full use of your powers along lines of excellence.
Posted by: Air Jordan | February 21, 2011 at 05:08 PM