Character is a given. We all have one. WHAT it is is our gift to the world… or not. But without doubt it is us who create our character. Actually, Webster gives a great deal of space to the word.
“one of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an
individual; the complex of mental and ethical traits marking and
often individualizing a person, group, or nation; main or essential
nature especially as strongly marked and serving to distinguish…”
And I could continue… there are also synonyms and words used to describe character. Point being – you have one. The question is – does it describe who you are and how you want to be perceived? On the continuum from bold to wishy-washy, how would you describe your place, status. Pleased with you?
The question related to the title refers to ‘strength’. Are you the type that responds to (fill in the blank) whoever you speak with last? Do you change so often that on one, including yourself, knows what you actually do believe and will act on. These types of people typically only act in conjunction with whoever they are with and not independently. There are also those that constantly go against the stream… simply to be independent. Neither extreme are people you would need on any project requiring others to be involved.
Strength of Character is to be prized. Scripture speaks about character, often in terms of the results from a person displaying a good character. One of the more famous quotes is in Romans (5:3-5)**
“More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
Notice that character produces. Also, that it is also produced. This means, in my world of definitions, that character is very visible and is ours to create. We are the ones responsible for who we are. You can blame circumstances, upbringing, etc. but the bottom line is that our character is within our ability and demonstrates who we are. I also believe it can grow in strength – both good and bad. Our choice.
One guarantee I can make is that if the definition of your character is negative, it takes a long time and consistent behavior to change people’s minds. However, if you don’t like your character – change begins with you and your commitment. Attributed to Einstein, the definition of insanity is doing the same things over and over again but expecting different results. This is true in a variety of areas but especially when becoming a better you. It’s impossible to continue your old practices and expect a new acceptance.
**[Other scriptures are: Proverbs 28:6 / Matthew 12:35 / Galatians 5:22-23 / Colossians 3:12-15 ]
