What is Character?
(Aleem Ahmed Qureshi, Bahawalpur)
What is character? According to
the dictionary, character means:
1. a distinctive trait;
2. behavior typical of a person or group;
3. moral strength;
4. reputation.
Character is an evaluation of a particular individual's moral qualities. It can
also imply a variety of attributes including the existence of lack of virtues
such as integrity, courage, fortitude, honesty and loyalty, or of good behaviors
or habits. When someone is a moral character, it is primarily referring to the
assemblage of qualities that distinguish one individual from another.
When we watch a movie or read a book we usually think of the characters. Even
though sometimes the character is complex most of the time they tend to be
usually good or bad. Even in the early days of the western, you could tell the
characters by the color of their outfits and hats. Although we tend to support
the good character and cheer them on as they go about their lives. We want to
see them succeed. But in real life character is much more complicated. We are
all an array of good and bad character traits. We need to make a conscience
decision to do what is right. Depending on your choices, we are either rewarded
or have to pay the consequences.
The United States Air Force Academy definition is "We define character as the
sum of those qualities of moral excellence that stimulate a person to do the
right thing, which is manifested through right and proper actions despite
internal or external pressures to the contrary."
Another quote by an author unknown says, "Watch your thoughts; they become
words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become
habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it
becomes your destiny."
Once your character has been destroyed how long do you think it would take for
others to trust you again? Would your character ever be totally repaired? Would
there always be a hint of question surrounding you?
Remember when dealing with others keep your character intact. Also, remember the
true test of character is what you do when no one is watching you. Do you act
the same way when you are alone as you do when you are with others. As Abraham
Lincoln said, "Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a
man's character, give him power."