Top Rated Articles
Personal Values  |
     |
ByDr. S. Ignacimuthu posted on01 Apr, 12 22399 Views 0 Comments Main Feature Add to favorite |
Ambition
“Attach your wagon to a
star.” | - R.W.
Emerson |
Ambition
is the aspiration of a person for success or advancement in
any field. It is the inner force that motivates a person to
better his or her condition or state in life. It gives
motivation to achieve great things through hard work,
determination and drive. It helps a person to set a goal for
oneself and reach it.
To a certain extent
ambition has been responsible for the fashioning of giants
in the world in all spheres of activity. Healthy ambition is
free from selfishness, vanity and pride. It is considerate
towards others and does not put down others in order to
achieve its own aims and goals. Not all are gifted with
healthy ambition. We can infuse this in those who show a
lack of it. Ambition is a trait to be cultivated with care.
It spurs us on to struggle with purpose.
Story
A man, eager to learn
English in order to come up in life, entered a bookstore and
asked the salesman: “How many methods do you have to
learn English?” He was shown a shelf on which he
counted fourteen methods in all. The man asked: “Which
one of these is the best?” The salesman answered:
“Take any one; one is as bad as the other.” The
man asked: “Then what am I supposed to do?” The
salesman said: “If you want to learn English, be
ambitious; mix with people who speak English and start
talking. Once you set your goals with ambition, you will
succeed.”
Ambition Can Be
Cultivated through
- Gaining self-knowledge of
one’s character, aptitudes, potentials and
limitations.
- Working purposefully and
optimistically towards achieving one’s goals.
- Taking pride in one’s home and working for its
improvement.
- Helping others to achieve
self-reliance.
- Taking up part-time jobs.
- Getting involved in co-curricular activities.
- Promoting the interests of others to the extent of
sacrificing one’s own time and money.
- Studying diligently and working hard.
- Pioneering in new fields venturing into creative areas
of work.
Exercises
- Recognize situations where people
display ambitions.
- Distinguish between ambition and
over ambitiousness.
- What are the positive effects
of ambition?
- Recall to your mind some persons who
have been successful in life due to positive ambition.
- Think of a news item, short story, magazine article,
literary piece, skit, street play, folk song, poem, film,
biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting
this value.
|
Personal Values | Posted by :Dr. S. Ignacimuthu | Ambition “Attach your wagon to a
star.” | - R.W. Emerson |
Ambition is the aspiration of a person for success or advancement in any field. It is the
inner force that motivates a person to better his or her condition or state in life. It gives
motivation to achieve great things through hard work, determination and drive. It helps a person to
set a goal for oneself and reach it. To a certain extent ambition has been responsible
for the fashioning of giants in the world in all spheres of activity. Healthy ambition is free from
selfishness, vanity and pride. It is considerate towards others and does not put down others in
order to achieve its own aims and goals. Not all are gifted with healthy ambition. We can infuse
this in those who show a lack of it. Ambition is a trait to be cultivated with care. It spurs us on
to struggle with purpose. Story A man, eager to learn
English in order to come up in life, entered a bookstore and asked the salesman: “How many
methods do you have to learn English?” He was shown a shelf on which he counted fourteen
methods in all. The man asked: “Which one of these is the best?” The salesman answered:
“Take any one; one is as bad as the other.” The man asked: “Then what am I
supposed to do?” The salesman said: “If you want to learn English, be ambitious; mix
with people who speak English and start talking. Once you set your goals with ambition, you will
succeed.” Ambition Can Be Cultivated through - Gaining
self-knowledge of one’s character, aptitudes, potentials and limitations.
- Working
purposefully and optimistically towards achieving one’s goals.
- Taking pride in
one’s home and working for its improvement.
- Helping others to achieve
self-reliance.
- Taking up part-time jobs.
- Getting involved in co-curricular
activities.
- Promoting the interests of others to the extent of sacrificing one’s own
time and money.
- Studying diligently and working hard.
- Pioneering in new fields
venturing into creative areas of work.
Exercises
- Recognize situations where people display ambitions.
- Distinguish between ambition and
over ambitiousness.
- What are the positive effects of ambition?
- Recall to your mind
some persons who have been successful in life due to positive ambition.
- Think of a news
item, short story, magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk song, poem, film,
biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value.
Cleanliness “Cleanliness is indeed next to
Godliness.” | - John Wesley |
Cleanliness refers to a habitual neatness or purity without any dirt, filth or corruption. In this
narrowest sense it is freedom from dirt, filth, adulteration and corruption. In its widest sense, it
is freedom from guilt, and defilement. Cleanliness shows respect for the dignity of a
human person. It prompts us to pursue principles of inner purity. It leads to a life that is
systematic, well-ordered and healthy. It is a reflection of inner purity. It helps us to keep our
surroundings neat and clean. Narration A famous
scientist and Nobel laureate visited New Delhi for an international conference. Just adjacent to the
five star hotel he was staying, he found a slum with lots of people living in unhygienic conditions.
He visited them and to his dismay he realised that many of them had been affected by quite a few
diseases. Immediately he met the authorities concerned and made arrangements to provide them clean
and healthy place for living. After that the people were able to live a healthy life with a clean
environment. Cleanliness can be cultivated through
- Keeping all things in their place and wearing clean clothes
- Keeping the body, mind and
soul clean and pure
- Helping others to keep the house and surroundings neat and clean
- Avoiding bad and indecent language
- Not scribbling on the walls, using dust-bins
properly and keeping toilets clean
- Keeping clean all public places
- Contributing to
environmental cleanliness
- Keeping away from morally harmful activities and situations.
Exercises - Recognize situations of
cleanliness and uncleanliness.
- Recall to your mind some people who have adhered to
cleanliness.
![]() - What are the positive effects of cleanliness?
- Think of a news item, short story, magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play,
folk-song, poem, film, biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value
Contentment
“Contentment comes not so much
from greater wealth as from fewer wants” | -
D.J.D. |
Contentment refers to a state of desirelessness.
It is the ability to be satisfied with what one has without unnecessary desires or avarice. It does
not imply that one does not want to strive to achieve great things or work hard. Contentment
cultivates self-discipline and a life style that is devoid of luxury and ease.
Contentment negates greediness. It arises from the subduing of one’s desires. As Buddha says,
“Desire is the root cause of all evil,” so contentment aims to overcome desires which
are worldly, petty and greedy. A contented mind is the greatest blessing we can enjoy in this
world. To be happy and satisfied with what we have is the key to a peaceful life. Of
course, this does not deter any one from making progress in life. A contented person is never
jealous, contentment prompts one to enjoy one’s life without comparing it with that of
another; it will not pave the way for unhealthy competition. A contented person will enjoy serenity
and peace of mind. Never will we hear complaint or dissatisfaction from contented persons. A
contented person is a friend of all. The fewer our wants, the nearer we resemble God
Story A wise man from China once received the favour of visiting
heaven and hell. In hell he saw men and women with sunken faces and bony limbs, seated around an
enormous heap of tasty rice and fruits. They were all terribly hungry; their hands were tied with
long spoons and they could not fold their arms to eat. When they tried to reach their food to the
mouth the food was thrown to the floor. They were thinking of only themselves. Whereas in heaven he
saw also men and women seated around another heap of rice and fruits very similar to the one he had
seen in hell. But here all were very happy with beaming faces and aglow with health. They too could
not fold their arms while eating. However, everyone was thinking of the other and hence they were
feeding the person in front with contentment and joy. Contentment Can Be
Cultivated through - Enjoying one’s life without comparing it with
that of others
- Controlling carefully the use of food, clothing, time, recreation,
travel
- Desiring and requesting only the basic essentials
- Finding time daily for
quiet reflection, to replenish moral and spiritual resources
.jpg) - Purchasing
only the essential commodities for simple living
- Overcoming the obsession for foreign
goods.
Exercises - Recollect life
situations where contentment can be practised.
- What are the positive effects of
contentment?
![]() - Think of a news item, short story, magazine
article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film, biography, photo, painting, T.V.
or radio serial depicting this value.
Courage “Often the test of courage is
not to die but to live” | - Alfieri |
Life has many challenges and they must be faced with courage. Courage is the ability to
face the strains and setbacks of our rapidly changing environment, with valour. It is
inherently dynamic. It motivates us to fight for our principles and values. It prompts us to face
any situation and spurs us to stand boldly even in the face of death. Courage coupled
with love makes us even sacrifice our life. It bestows on us superhuman powers leading us to heights
of heroism. True courage is linked with deep faith. Courage has driven philosophers,
scientists, technologists and freedom fighters to forge ahead undauntedly to achieve the impossible.
It emanates not from the absence of fear but from the ability to overcome fear. It is the only force
that induces us to meet peril, disaster and melancholy with calmness, poise, tranquillity,
fearlessness and confidence. Testimony “Due to my involvement in the struggle for the freedom of my
people, I have known very few quiet days in the last few years. I have been arrested five times and
put in Alabama Jails. My home has been bombed twice. A day seldom passes that my family and I are
not the recipients of threats of death. I have been the victim of near-fatal stabbing. So, in a real
sense I have been battered by the storms of persecution. I must admit that at times I have felt that
I could no longer bear such a heavy burden, and have been tempted to retreat to a more quiet and
serene life,. But every time such a temptation appeared, something came to strengthen my
determination. Faith in Jesus gave me courage to face all these.” | - Martin Luther King | Courage Can Be Cultivated
through - Accepting corrections in the right spirit
- Overcoming
frailties and weaknesses
- Rising above criticism and rash judgment
- Resisting fear
complex
- Owning our mistakes
- Facing new challenges and shouldering
responsibilities
- Placing trust and confidence in God and developing an unshakable faith in
him
- Facing the realities of life and accepting one’s own limitations
- Learning to accept failures as stepping stones to success
- Enduring trials, accidents
and unexpected happenings with tolerance and composure
- Resisting bad influences
- Standing up for one’s convictions and acting according to principles
- Standing for
truth even at the expense of losing one’s popularity
- Fighting against social
evils
- Standing for the rights of the underprivileged.
Exercises - Recollect some people who have acted with courage.
- Have
you shown courage in your life in facing situations?
![]() - What are
the positive effects of having courage?
- What are the effects of fear?
- Think of a
news item, short story, magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film,
biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value.
Creativity “Creativity brings forth the best in every one of us
…” | - S. Ignacimuthu |
Creativity empowers a person to uncover the hidden forces lying dormant. It helps a person to
travel the path of the unknown and to unearth the hidden mysteries. Creativity makes us
to constantly search. It awakens our intellect and sharpens our thinking. It teaches one to be
objective and factual in all fields of enquiry. Creativity blossoms in an atmosphere of freedom and
openness. It leads us to new discoveries and helps us to explore in to our own inner being. Creativity sharpens our intellect to acquire knowledge. It shines through concentration of the
mind. It cultivates rationality and prompts us to achievement and success and helps us to dare with
a vision. Creativity is the ability to bring something new in to existence. This embraces a wide
variety of forms: a mechanical invention, a chemical process, a poem, a painting, a musical
composition, an essay, a book, etc. the emphasis in all these is upon originality, freshness,
novelty, ingenuity, diversity, cleverness and aptness. Illustration After a tiring day, Walt Disney was in bed, trying to sleep. But he could not sleep at all
the whole night since his friends, who had returned after a full day’s picnic, were snoring.
Each one was snoring in his own way. Even though Walt Disney was not able to sleep; he made use of
the time to record the pitch and rhythm and later composed a beautiful, snoring symphony which was
included in the film ‘Full Bright Moon and Seven Stars’ which won him Oscar Award for
music. Creativity Can Be Cultivated through - Observing and
inquiring into the how and why of things and activities
- Developing curiosity in events that
take place
- Cultivating hobbies suited to one’s temperament and disposition
- Following current events with an analytical mind
- Analysing one’s behaviour to
arrive at a better understanding of one’s self
- Probing into the depths of
knowledge
- Being alert
- Exploring inquisitively
- Being innovative
- Exercising a continued sprit of enquiry in any profession
- Appreciating art, music, folk
art, folk music, etc.
Exercises
- Recall the moments from your life when you had put into practice creativity.
- Recognize
situations when guesswork is operative.
![]() - Enumerate the
advantages of creativity in a person’s growth.
- Think of a news item, short story,
magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk song, poem, film, biography, photo,
painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value.
Determination “There is no such thing as a great talent without great
willpower” | - Honore De Baleau |
Determination refers to the quality of being firm, resolute and strong-willed. It enables a
person to face peril, disaster and adversity with unflinching courage, firmness, strength of mind
and spirit. It helps a person to stand up and fight against the events and circumstances that tend
to destroy and cripple and thus helps one to achieve one’s aim in life.
Determination disciplines a person to meet calamity with patience and inner strength. It supplies
inner energy and exudes quiet sustaining strength to meet all crises with composure helping us to
maintain equilibrium at the time of all crises. Determination is an ingredient of a noble character
that endows the individual with the gift to smile in the face of adversity and fills a person with
confidence and courage to the trials of life. Determination develops a sense of self-confidence,
maturity, and fulfilment. It gives courage and peace. Parable A
sparrow fell in love with a white rose, but the rose said to the bird: “Unless I am turned in
to red, I will not be able to love you. “The sparrow, left in deep thoughts, wondered and
searched for means to turn the white rose into red. At dawn of the marrow the sparrow was struck
with the bright idea of pricking itself with a thorn and letting its blood flow on the rose. Having
accomplished its task, when the rose turned red, the sparrow breathed its last after achieving its
goal with determination. Determination can be cultivated through - Developing a positive outlook on life
- Accepting reverses
with calmness
- Making continued, persevering attempts to attain a goal in spite of
setbacks
- Maintaining quality of heart and mind
- Accepting failures with
courage
- Facing the consequences of unjust punishment
- Suppressing personal
grievances
- Working for the betterment of others
- Giving up one’s own
interests for the sake of others
- Disciplining oneself to meet crises.
Exercises - Recall your mind instances where you have acted with determination
in your life.
- Give examples for lack of determination.
![]()
- What are the advantages of this value of determination?
- Do you know people who have
acted with determination?
- Think of a news item, short story, magazine article, literary
piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film, biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial
depicting this value.
Dignity of Labour
“No one can disgrace us but
ourselves.” | - J. G. Holland |
Dignity of labour impels us to develop respect for different types of work making us realize
that every individual must contribute his or her quota of work for the betterment of society. We
would no more discriminate between white collar jobs and manual work or between social elitism and
false pride. Dignity of labour manifests itself through its characteristics of perseverance and
diligence which encourage us to enjoy and take pride in our work. Dignity of labour will prompt all
of us to work for the nation with dedication and commitment and contribute our mite in its march
towards progress and growth. Dignity of labour tells us very clearly that work in all
its form is ennobling. The greatness of human beings lies in their ability to toil in any kind of
work. Dignity of labour recognizes that every one’s work is important. It impels us to avoid
class consciousness. Dignity of labour helps us to discover ourselves, gives satisfaction and peace,
and contributes to our growth and independence. Illustration When General Washington was made commander of the American Forces, he came one day to a group of
soldiers who were working hard to dig a pit while their officer stood aside shouting at them.
Washington asked him why he did not give them a helping hand. The officer answered: “You
should know, Sir, that I’m a corporal. I’ll never stoop to this kind of work.”
Washington said nothing but stepped in and started helping the men. When the work was over, he
turned to the corporal and said: “When you have any more work like that which you are not
ready to do yourself, just ask for General Washington and I shall be only too eager to
come.” Dignity of labour can be developed through
- Helping
in cleaning, washing, cooking, shopping, repairing, running, errands
- Learning different
works and picking up skills in cookery, laundry, carpentry, embroidery, plumbing, electrical work
etc.
- Respecting the helpers and other workers
- Taking up ‘earn while you
learn’ jobs
- Caring for the sick and the aged
- Participating in community
development projects with an aim to eradicate social evils, prejudices and superstitions.
Exercises - Recognize the
nature of different works in the life of people.
- Recall instances of people who respect
labour.
![]() - Have you experienced a positive outlook about different
works?
- What are the positive outcomes of the dignity of labour?
- Think of a news
item, short story, magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film,
biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value.
Diligence Diligence is perseverance and steady effort. It makes a
person industrious and hardworking helping him/her to face the challenges in this competitive world
with courage and conviction. It gives a person the ability and the enthusiasm to undertake a
time-bound, goal-oriented task and the patience to pursue the goal cheerfully in spite of setbacks
and failures. It contributes to fulfilment and negates aimlessness, goallessness and
meaninglessness. Diligence has produced persons of great calibre, endowing them with
constancy, security and sound character. It brings out creativity in individuals, inspires people to
do great things and goads people to dare impossible feats.
Testimony A man walking through the forest saw a fox that had lost its
legs and wondered how it survived. Then he saw a tiger come in with a prey in its mouth. The tiger
had its fill and left the rest of the meet for the fox. The next day God fed the fox
by means of the same tiger. The man began to wonder at God’s great goodness and said to
himself, “I too shall just shall just rest in a corner with full trust in the Lord and he will
provide me with all I need.” He did so for many days but nothing happened and the
poor fellow was almost at death’s door when he heard a voice say, “O, you who are in the
path of error, open your eyes to the truth! Follow the example of the tiger and stop imitating the
disabled fox. Be diligent and work hard.” Diligence Can Be Cultivated
through - Cheerfully participating in the work at home, institution, etc.
- Exploring one’s potentials and talents
- Looking out for creative
opportunities
- Applying one’s mind to studies seriously and regularly
- Paying
full attention in classes
- Undertaking remedial exercises
- Trying to develop the
intellect to the maximum
- Being punctual and regular
- Making efforts to improve
one’s efficiency
- Being engaged in productive work
Exercises - Give examples of success and failure due to diligence from your own
life.
- Identify diligence and its positive effects and fruits.
![]() - Analyse the working places and assess whether diligence is at work.
- List the
names of diligent people you know.
- Think of a news item, short story, magazine article,
literary piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film, biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio
serial depicting this value
Discernment
“You shall judge a man by his foes
as well as by his friends.” | - Joseph Conrad |
Discernment implies good judgment. It is a mental process that helps us to
perceive the differences between good and bad enabling us to sift between valuables and
non-valuables. In this materialistic world, we are exposed to numerous allurements through sensual
attractions and advertisements. We are faced with numerous choices to choose from. It helps us to
assess our actions in the background of the ideals and values we cherish. Discernment
should be exercised honestly in the full light of critical thinking and deliberate reflection. It
considers the facts and rejects thoughts and feelings that are biased and prejudiced. Discernment
exposes hypocrisy, false self-pride, pretence and looks at reality in a perceptive way. It helps
people to refine their character, gives scope for the practice of the values of integrity,
sincerity, frankness and openness. Discernment gives insight in to problems, creates clarity of
vision and develops an open mind. Illustration The Zufi
Bayazid says this about himself: “I was revolutionary when I was young and all my prayer to
God was: ‘Lord, give me the energy to change the world’. “As I
approached middle age and realised that half my life was gone without my changing a single soul, I
changed my prayer to: ‘Lord, give me the grace to change myself!’ After this I found
changes in myself and others. If I had prayed for this gift right from the start I would not have
wasted half my life.” Discernment Can Be Cultivated through
- Assessing one’s potentials, aptitudes, skills and talents
- Analysing processes and
procedures of action in the light of the goals to be accomplished
- Probing the depths of our
inner being in consonance with our inner voice
- Weighing friendships for their good or bad
influence on individuals
- Subjecting one’s opinions to critical investigation to
rectify bias or prejudice
- Probing the deep implications of advertisements, films, fashions,
drugs and so on
- Opting for changes and innovations only after estimating their importance
and genuineness
- Sifting all things to determine their intrinsic worth.
Exercises - Recognize
situations where discernment is needed
- What are the positive effects of discernment?
![]() - Recollect some persons who have practised discernment.
- Think of a news item, short story, magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play,
folk-song, poem, film, biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value
Excellence “Lives of all great men remind us, we can make our
lives sublime.” | - Longfellow |
Excellence means to be extremely good or competent. It instils in a person a longing for
perfection in all spheres of activity, whether individual or collective. You become engaged in
ceaseless industry and dogged persistence, till the task is accomplished. Excellence manifests a
restlessness that is only satisfied by exceptional performance. Average mediocrity is not enough. It
does not live on praise and recognition either. Excellence evaluates its performance
from time to time, to devise means of improving its end-product. It is open to criticism and
suggestions, and studies them objectively to enrich the quality and the quantity of production. It
develops a spirit of enquiry, research, perseverance and constancy always looking for new ideas,
views, experiments and creative and innovative thinking. It exhibits determinations, drives us to
give our best to make our work outstanding, and infuses mastery and love for quality work.
Excellence always looks for perfection. Narration
Blondin, the famous tight-rope walker of America once balanced himself across a thin wire high above
Niagara Falls, while hundreds of gaping spectators held their breaths. When the incredible walk feat
was accomplished and the applause had died down, Blondin called out: “Do you believe that I
can do it again?” A tremendous roar of assent went up from the crowd. “All right,”
shouted Blondin with great confidence, “who will sit on my shoulders as I make the return
trip?” He was Excelling in tight rope walking because of his determination, hard work and
perseverance. Excellence Can Be Cultivated through - Working hard
to shine in life
- Maintaining our working place clean and tidy
- Beautifying the
surroundings of our home
- Doing our works as perfectly as possible
- Practising the
art of evaluation and critical analysis after major undertakings
- Aiming at quality
performance in all that we do
- Making critical assessment of various activities
- Realizing that individual’s excellence contributes to national excellence.
Exercises - Recognize
situations where excellence is operative.
- Identify people who have practised this
value.
![]() - Compare and contrast excellence and mediocrity.
- What are the positive results of excellence?
- Think of a news item, short story,
magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film, biography, photo,
painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value.
Honesty “An honest man is the noblest work of
God.” | - A. Pope |
Honesty
means truthfulness. It is a quality within an individual that urges a person to be true to oneself
and to others. Honesty does not permit any camouflage or duplicity. It shows no deception. It is
actualized by a person’s ability to stand up for one’s convictions, honouring
one’s commitments. Honesty ennobles a person’s character, establishes a person’s
reputation as a trustworthy individual, and brings respectability. There is no treasure as rich as
honesty. Honesty brings peace of mind and happiness. It stands by convictions and right discernment
and its demands firmness of mind and upright thinking.
Illustration A boy went to a lady’s house to sell some berries
he had picked. “Yes I’ll buy some,” said the lady as she took the pail and went
inside. Without concern for the berries, the boy stayed at the door, whistling to some birds parched
in a cage. “Don’t you want to come in and see that I don’t take more than I
should? How do you know that I won’t cheat you?” she asked. The boy answered:
“I’m not worried. Besides, you’d get the worst of it.” “Get the worst
of it?” said the lady. “What you mean by that?” “Oh, I would only lose a few
berries, but you would make yourself a thief.” Honesty Can Be Cultivated
through - Obeying the dictates of one’s conscience
- Displaying correspondence between thoughts, words and deeds
- Accepting one’s
potentialities and limitations and not hiding them from others
- Speaking truth on all
occasions
- Admitting one’s faults truthfully
- Giving correct account of money
spent
- Repaying loans, respecting the conditions attached to them
- Refraining from
partiality
- Accepting full responsibility for works done
- Not deceiving others,
avoiding copying in examinations
- Obeying rules and regulations
- Not giving or
taking bribes
- Not transacting black money
- Having no part in evil practices such as
smuggling, hoarding, adulteration, etc.
- Earning one’s livelihood by honest and
genuine means.
Exercises - Recognize situations
where honesty and dishonesty are practised.
- Identify honesty and its fruits.
![]() - Discover life-situations where honesty has to be practised.
- Analyse the problems that arise due to dishonesty and suggested remedies
- Think of a
news item, short story, magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film,
biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value.
Hope “Hope is like the glittering ray of the sun that annihilates all
darkness.” | - S. Ignacimuthu |
Hope is expectation with some confidence of some fulfilment. Deep in the heart of every person
God has implanted a seed of hope. Hope looks on life with optimism. It cherishes a desire for good
with the expectation of obtaining it and takes a positive attitude to action, discovering
opportunities for success. Hope continues and strives hard resisting the temptation to quit. Trust
prevails even in situations of hopelessness and problems are taken as challenges. Hope dispels
despair. Hope dreams in a big way. It is not weighed down by obstacles or setbacks.
Defeats are used as a stepping stone to success. It spreads optimism and builds self-esteem. Hope
focuses its attention on the worth of people instead of dwelling on their defects. It is not
embittered by misunderstandings. It is confident in the inherent goodness of persons. Hope stands
the test of time and is relevant for all ages. It anticipates future success and brings cheerfulness
and confidence. Illustration Thomas Edison lost two
million dollars’ worth of equipment and the record of much of his life’s work, when the
Edison industries were destroyed by fire in 1914. Edison’s son Charles, rushing
about to find his father, at last, spotted him standing near the fire, his white hair blown with the
winter wind. His heart ached for his aged father. Edison saw Charles and shouted:
“Where is your mother?” Find her. Bring her here. She will never see anything like this
again as long as she lives.” The next morning, walking among the ashes of so many
of his hopes and dreams, the 67 year old Edison said “There is a great value in disaster. All
our mistakes are burned up. Thank God we can start anew.” Hope Can Be
Cultivated through - Placing one’s trust and confidence in God at
every circumstance
- Fighting against dejection and discouragement
- Having an
optimistic attitude to life
- Developing trust and confidence in the improvement of
others
- Using failures as stepping stones to success
- Helping others to rise above
their difficulties
- Avoiding inferiority complex
- Being optimistic
- Focusing
one’s attention on the positive aspect of life
- Encouraging others not to get
dejected.
Exercises - Recall some
events from your life where hope has helped you to move forward.
- Identify situations of
hopelessness and suggest remedy.
![]() - Think of some people from your
life experience who had acted with great hope at times of adversity.
- What are the positive
effects of hope?
- Think of a news item, short story, magazine article, literary piece, skit,
street play, folk-song, poem, film, biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this
value
Maturity “Maturity begins when we are content to feel we are
right about something without feeling the necessity to prove someone else
wrong.” | - Sydney Harris |
Maturity is the blossoming of a person’s character in to a unified totality. It develops a
balance emotional outlook, helping the individual to accept oneself with all the talents and
limitations. It also helps to accept others as they are. Maturity assumes responsibility for
one’s actions. It is accountable; it constantly assesses, judges and takes appropriate
decisions. Maturity analyses values ant internalizes them constantly. It helps us to face emotional
crises. It is a gradual process that comes with self-knowledge and self-realisation. It
shapes a person into a responsible adult helping him/her to overcome inferiority complex. It gives
the serenity to accept what cannot be changed and the courage to change what can be. It gives the
wisdom to know the difference between what is balanced and what is not balanced. Maturity helps to
develop self-control as well as respect for others. It helps us to live by our convictions. Illustration Socrates was once asked by one of his disciples:
“Why is it, sir, that you tell everybody who wants to become your disciple to look into this
pond and tell him what he sees?” “That is very simple, my friend,”
answered the sage, “I am ready to accept all those who tell me they see the fish swimming
around. But those who see only their own image mirrored in the water are in love their ego. I have
no use for them.” Maturity Can Be Cultivated through
- Adhering to regular programmes for studies, reading, reduce eating, etc.
- Participating in through provoking discussions
- Listening attentively to the opinion of
others
- Recognizing one’s potentials and limitations
- Having self-control with
respect to moods and feelings
- Being what one really is
- Understanding others as
they are
- Not being easily swayed by the influence of others.
Exercises - Identify mature persons and their life-style.
- What are the benefits of being a mature person?
![]() - Recall
life-situations when you or others have acted with maturity.
- Think of a news item, short
story, magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film, biography, photo,
painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value
Regularity
and Punctuality “I have always been a quarter of an hour before time, and it has made a
man of me.” | - Nelson |
Regularity is the habit that contributes to the development of character. It exhibits the qualities
of steadiness and constancy. It regulates and systematizes a person’s life. Regularity
disciplines a person and negates any erratic and disorderly way of life. Punctuality manifests an
appreciation and sensitivity for the value of time commitments. When punctuality is practised
judiciously, it curtails any drain of a person’s precious movements. Punctuality
maximizes a person’s span of life. When punctuality is practised habitually, it develops
peace, calmness, tranquillity and self-confidence. Punctuality wins the respect of others. Our
effectiveness will depend on the punctuality and regularity we practise. When we are unfaithful to
keep an appointment, we prove ourselves dishonest and unreliable. “Take time to think, it is the source of power Take
time to play, it is the secret of perpetual youth Take time to read, it is the foundation of
wisdom Take time to pray, it is the greatest power on earth Take time to love and to be
loved. It is a God-given privilege Take time to be friendly, it is the road to happiness
Take time to laugh, it is the music of the soul.” | -
Anonymous |
Regularity and Punctuality Can Be Cultivated through - Making it a
habit of rising punctuality and regularity each morning
- Being on time for various
activities
- Keeping to one’s promises
- Avoiding tardiness and lethargy
- Fulfilling time bound, goal-oriented programmes
- Being faithful to all appointments with
others
- Adhering to retiring at fixed time table – retiring at particular times
- Keeping and observing a regular time schedule.
Exercises - Identify situations of punctuality and regularity.
- What
are the effects of being regular and punctual?
![]() - Recall the
moments you have felt irritated when others failed to keep punctuality and regularity.
- Analyse the problems that might arise if we are not punctual and regular.
- Think of a
news item, short story, magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film,
biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value.
Self-Confidence “The confidence which we have in ourselves gives birth to much of that
which we have in others.” | - Rochefoucauld |
Self-confidence implies trust in oneself and in one’s ability. It
contributes to the enrichment of human character. Self-confidence creates an awareness
of existence of various abilities in us, gives us the boldness to face difficulties and problems,
and helps us to build our human potential. It makes us think positively and develops in us
self-respect and optimism. Self-confidence is the first secret of success.
Parable “Who among you will take up the duty of feeding the
hungry?” Lord Buddha asked his followers when famine raged at Shravasti. Ratnakar, the banker,
hung his head and said: “Much more is needed than all my wealth to feed the hungry.”
Jaysen, the chief of the king’s army, said: “I would gladly give my life’s blood,
but there is not enough food in my house.” Dharampal, who owned broad acres of land, said with
a sigh: “The drought demon has sucked my fields dry. I know not how to pay the king’s
dues.” Then rose Supriya, the mendicant’s daughter. She bowed to all and meekly said:
“I will feed the hungry.” “How?” they cried in a surprise. How can you hope
to fulfil that vow?” “I am the poorest of you all,” said Supriya, “and that
is my strength. I have my coffer and my store at each of your houses.”
Self-confidence can be cultivated through - Learning to
make one’s own choices and decisions
- Developing a strategy of accomplishing a
goal
- Developing a sense of creativity
- Training oneself to assume
responsibility
- Learning to maintain self-discipline
- Discovering one’s
aptitudes
- Forming one’s own judgment with respect to the policies and
achievements.
Exercises - Recognize
occasions where self-confidence is operative.
- Identify the moments in your life when you
acted with self-confidence.
![]() - What are the advantages of being
self-confident?
- Think of a news item, short story, magazine article, literary piece, skit,
street play, folk-song, poem, film, biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this
value.
Self-motivation “They are able because, they think they are
able.” | - Virgil |
Self-motivation is the mental determination and will go to achieve what we want. It is the key to
happiness and success in life. Self-motivation has two dimensions. One is mental-related to mind. It
prompts us to think where we want to go and what we want to do. The other is related to action. It
goads us to act and to achieve what we desire. Self-motivated persons determine the goals and act
strongly to achieve them. In order to be motivated, one must be self-confident. The
most important point in self-motivation is to believe in one’s self. Belief in one’s
self is the very basis of successful self-motivation. Belief in one’s self helps to develop
positive attitudes. Faith in one’s self, faith in others and faith in God will help us move
mountains. If we want to improve our positions in life, if we want to be happier and more
successful, if we want to set newer records, if we want to do anything at all even though it may
seem utterly impossible, we must get self-motivated. Illustration Edison, the greatest inventor the world has known, had a resolute self-confidence. Edison
was not able to get along with teachers and students and hence he discontinued his studies. He
received only four years of formal schooling. But he taught himself, by reading Physics and
Chemistry books and the Bible and setting up a small laboratory at home. Despite constant financial
problems Edison was on the creative rampage. He became one of the best scientists due to his
self-motivation. A friend of Thomas Edison asked him about the results of his
experiments. Thomas Edison exclaimed, marvelling at the bewildering total of his
failures, namely, 50,000 experiments, before he succeeded with the new storage battery:
“Results,” he said , “why man, I have gotten lots of results: I know 50,000 things
won’t work.” Motivation Can Be Cultivated through - Making a list of goals in one’s life, arranging them in the order of priority and
setting a date to reach them
- Listing the steps one must take to reach one’s
goals
- Listing the qualities of personal behaviour to reach these goals
- Identifying
the qualities one lacks to achieve these goals
- Overcoming the negative qualities
- Thinking positively about all things including one’s self
- Accepting the best and
always doing the best
- Focusing on one’s goal constantly and visualizing them as being
fulfilled
- Looking forward and far ahead
- Willing to pay the price to achieve
one’s goals
- Believing in one’s self.
Exercises - Recall the moments in your life when you acted with
self-motivation.
- What are the advantages of being self-motivated?
![]() - Compare persons with self-motivation and lack of self-motivation.
- Think of a
news item, short story, magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film,
biography, photo, painting, T.V. or radio serial depicting this value.
Simplicity “Simplicity of character is the natural result of profound
thought.” | - Hazlitt |
Simplicity refers to being unassuming, ordinary and without artificiality. Simplicity of character
is the natural result of profound thought. It is the hallmark of true greatness.
Simplicity avoids unnecessary and careless spending on superfluous and luxurious things. It
cultivates simple living life style and self-discipline, shuns pomp and show. It makes a person very
humble and human and does not stand on formalities. It relates to all and sundry without any
distinctions of status. It prompts us to reach out to the poor and lonely. Simplicity casts out all
envy and jealousy. Illustration Once, a young man was
travelling by train to Paris. After some time he noticed that the simple-looking man seated in front
of him took out his rosary and began to pray. The young man thought: “It is interesting to see
the faith of these simple people; they are so old fashioned. Nowadays no one is taking the rosary
seriously any more. I would never be seen praying the rosary like that, least of all in
public.” These were the thoughts of the young collage graduate as he watched the other man
slowly moving the beads through his fingers. At last, when the man slowly finished his rosary, the
young college graduate decided to speak to him and ask his name. Imagine what his surprise was when
the old man replied: “Louis Pasteur.” “Not Louis Pasteur, the great
scientist?” “Who else?” replied Pasteur. The young college graduate immediately
felt very humble reflecting on the humility of the great man. Simplicity Can Be
Cultivated through - Controlling carefully one’s expenses
- Requesting and using only the basic essentials
- Avoiding misuse of things
- Curtailing lavish expenditure on different occasions especially during various celebrations
- Practising simplicity in living and dress
- Overcoming the temptation pomp and show
- Respecting all people, even the poor
- Avoiding use of force and power when dealing with
people
- Avoiding show-off in our activities.
Exercises - Recollect to your mind some people who have been
simple.
- Recall the moments when you have practised simplicity.
![]() - What are the positive results of being simple?
- Think of a news item, short
story, magazine article, literary piece, skit, street play, folk-song, poem, film, biography, photo,
painting.
- Dr. S.
Ignacimuthu Former Vice Chancellor University OF MADRAS |
|
|
Rate this Article |
| Useful or not |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
| Syndicate This Article?
|
|
|
|
|
|