THE BETTER MY SELF-ESTEEM
the better my relationships

PREVIOUS: Character: HUMANITY (#1)

See ACRONYM Page for abbrev.

💚 INTEGRITY (giving our very best)
It’s uprightness of character – decency, honesty, soundness, & being internally complete or undivided (the True Self).
Expressed as – being loyal, faithful, dependable, & dedicated.
Conducting ourself responsibly – to the rules & laws of our community & spiritual beliefs. EXP : Consistent Honesty eliminates guilt & shame, while increasing self-confidence & sense of inner peace.
EXP:
• able to admit to making a mistake  • be dependable & trustworthy
• be fair in our dealing with others & not be manipulative
• be willing to tell the truth even if it costs us money, friends, even our reputation
• don’t exaggerate to make ourself or things seem bigger or better than we are
•  do the ‘right’ thing all the time, even when no one is watching

💚 JUSTICE (rectitude, fairness, uprightness).
Taking personal responsibility to uphold what is pure, right & true.
 Conforming to the principles of human or divine law, strict performance of moral obligations, integrity in dealing with people, correctly representing facts about their value or demerit
EXP:
• always remain open to reason  • keep our own conscience clean  • never prejudice others  • render to everyone their due or right • have respect for the authority of law   • speak out for what is pure, right & true

💚 LOVE (well-wishing, kindness, self-sacrifice).
The emotion of strong affection & attachment. An unselfish loyal & benevolent concern for the good of another. Can be passionate desire, closeness & intimacy, platonic or devotional
EXP:
•  feel a deep appreciation for everyone we meet because each is unique & special • put a special someone’s needs before our own • see people for who they really are, & still care deeply

💚 LOYALTY (unswerving allegiance)
Show commitment to those we serve or care about, especially during hard times. Hold to our vows, allegiance or obligations towards any person or group.
It’s being supportive, consistent & faithful to a custom, cause, duty, legitimate (healthy) person or ideal that we believe in
It does NOT demand our silence or paralysis when somebody or something is in the wrong, is unfair, unjust….
EXP:
• be of service to family & community  • encourage others in hard times  • don’t mock authorities • point out the good in others

💚 SERVICE (massing on what we receive)
Giving up some personal rights & expectations – temporarily or for the long term – from a desire to serve. Not just providing goods & services as payment, or performing one’s duties.
It’s also helping others to get what they want – actions that don’t involve a return, compensation, or consideration to oneself. Unsolicited help or benefit to someone in need, or doing someone a favor. Also, active devotion to God, through good works & prayer.
EXP:
• be humble, but not humiliated!    • be slow to react • be willing to go last, sometimes   •  don’t be boastful  • don’t grumble or complain   •  honor one’s country   • look for ways to help others without being asked

💚 TOLERANCE (towards self & others)
Accept ourself & others just as we /they are, rather than how we’d like ourself /them to be. Appreciate diversity – willing to recognize & respect the beliefs or practices of others. Allow others the right to their own opinions & peculiarities, & to be happy in their own way – if it doesn’t hurt others.
Realize that everyone is at a different stage of their character development, & accept that they express their unique character qualities in varying degrees of maturity. Overlook minor irritants in others. When annoyed, ask ourself “How important is it?”
EXP:
• accept the parts of ourself & other people that are UNchangeable  • don’t confuse what’s popular with what’s right  •  expect the same of ourself as we expect of others or vice-versa   • listen carefully with an open mind, before forming an opinion   • look for ways to help others to grow & mature.

NEXT: Principles of C. Outline