Character Qualities Introduction

Character Qualities

1. Alertness
2. Attentiveness
3. Availability
4. Boldness
5. Cautiousness
6. Compassion
7. Contentment
8. Creativity
9. Decisiveness
10. Deference
11. Dependability
12. Determination
13. Diligence
14. Discernment
15. Discretion
16. Endurance
17. Enthusiasm
18. Faith
19. Flexibility
20. Forgiveness

Each day I will focus on one of the character qualities as according to Bill Gothard. Today, the first day of my blog, will be about alertness.

Day 1: Alertness
The test had been announced in advance, which meant the students had the chance to study and come to class well prepared. Test papers were handed out, and the college exam commenced. One by one as students reached the end of the test they read the final question with consternation. Some grunted in disgust. One student exclaimed, "You''re kidding, right?" Another asked, "Does the last question count toward our grade?" It had to be a joke.
"Yes, it does." replied the teacher, somewhat tersely.
When all the papers were handed in, the professor finally explained. The last question was, "What is the first name of the man who cleans our school?" Virtually every student had been stumped. All of them saw him almost every day. But his name? If kids spoke to his ti was usually "Hey, dude." Few students knew his name was Otis.
(Excerpt from a book by Deborah Norville)

This excerpt from Deborah Norville's book is a great example of alertness. It seems more common then not that society as a whole is busy. We have work, school, homework, after-school activities, families, etc. Being diligent with ones time is an admirable trait but one should be careful to never be so busy that they ignore the people around them. People are important, human relationships are crucial. As the famous quote goes, "No man is an Island."
Look around today and say "Hi" to someone you normally don't speak to.