One dictionary defines “Character” as “The qualities built into an individual’s life that determine his or her response, regardless of circumstances.” It is significant that these character qualities are “built” – they don’t just happen to be there. It is true that our character develops as we face and respond to situations in life, but if we want to develop character qualities that lead to success in life it is important that we “build” them on purpose.

There are three keys to building character. The first key is to emphasize the character quality we want to build. We should focus on it and learn about it. If we are building the character quality of patience, for example, we should try to understand what patience really is and study examples of how it works out in real life situations. We can read stories of people whose lives demonstrated Read the rest of this entry »