PREVIOUS: Character: HUMANITY (Part 1)

INTEGRITY (giving our very best)
It’s uprightness of character, decency, honesty, soundness, and being internally complete or undivided (the True Self). Integrity shows up as – being loyal, faithful, dependable, & dedicated. It’s conducting ourselves responsibly – to the rules & laws of our community & spiritual beliefs
EXP:
• willing to tell the truth even if it costs us our money, friends, even our reputation  •  doing the ‘right’ thing all the time, even when no one is watching  • being dependable & trustworthy

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

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

LOYALTY (unswerving allegiance)
Show our commitment to those we serve or care about, especially during hard times. Hold to our vows, allegiance or obligations towards any person or group. Being supportive, consistent & faithful to a legitimate (healthy) person, ideal, custom, cause, or duty.
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 (giving 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 ones duties.
It’s also helping others to get what they want – actions that don’t involve a return, compensation, or consideration. Unsolicited help or benefit to someone in need, or doing someone a favor. Also, active devotion to God, through good works or prayer.
EXP:
• look for ways to help others without being asked • be slow to react •  don’t boastful  • don’t grumble or complain  • be willing to go last  • honor ones country • be humble, but not humiliated!

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

NEXT: Principles of C. #1