Kindness

Kindness

by | Jul 1, 2021 | Virtues

Description

Kindness is caring that springs from compassion. We have genuine concern for the welfare of others. We are warm, friendly, and ready to help. We listen for the needs beneath the words. We give tender attention in simple ways that bring others happiness. Kindness is the daily bread of love. When we feel angry, we resist the temptation to be cruel. We are good stewards of the earth and all living things. When we fill our cup, our kindness naturally overflows to others.

Quote

“Be the living expression of God’s kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile…”

— Mother Teresa

 The Practice of Kindness

  • I have empathy for others.
  • I notice what people need.
  • I love to be helpful.
  • I am thoughtful in little ways.
  • I practice good habits that help the earth.
  • I am a good caregiver to myself.
Definitions and practices of virtue are used with permission from the Virtues Project™.

In Family Life

The virtue of kindness in a family is a beacon of warmth and compassion that fosters a nurturing and harmonious environment. It manifests through small, everyday gestures, such as offering a listening ear during moments of vulnerability, sharing a heartfelt smile, or lending a helping hand without hesitation.

Kindness in a family is displayed through patience in times of conflict, forgiveness for mistakes, and a genuine willingness to understand each other’s perspectives. It thrives on expressing gratitude, offering encouragement, and showing empathy towards one another’s joys and sorrows. Ultimately, kindness in a family is the gentle thread that weaves love and support, creating a haven where every member feels valued, cherished, and uplifted.

Balancing Kindness

To maintain the virtue of kindness in its truest form, it’s essential to strike a balance. Several other virtues can help us do just that:

      • Wisdom: Wisdom enables us to discern when to offer kindness and when to exercise prudence. It helps us make thoughtful decisions about how to express our compassion effectively.
      • Courage: Courage empowers us to assert ourselves when necessary, even in the face of potential conflict. It prevents us from being pushed to the limit by overdeveloped kindness.
      • Empathy: Empathy allows us to truly understand the emotions and needs of others, ensuring our kindness is rooted in a genuine understanding of their experiences.
      • Self-compassion: Practicing self-compassion reminds us that kindness should also extend to ourselves. It prevents us from neglecting our well-being in the pursuit of helping others.
      • Justice: Justice guides us in treating everyone fairly and equitably. It ensures that our kindness is not biased or selective but extends to all individuals, regardless of their background.

Kindness, born from compassion, is a virtue that enriches our lives and the lives of those we touch.

 

Kindness

Justice

by | Jul 1, 2021 | Virtues

Description

Justice is the practice of fairness, integrity, and respect in our relationships and decisions. It calls us to treat others with dignity, to recognize their inherent worth, and to uphold their rights. Justice ensures that we strive for balance and equity, whether in our personal, professional, or societal interactions.

In everyday life, justice requires honesty—admitting when we are wrong and making efforts to right those wrongs. It also involves standing up for others, particularly when they face injustice or unfair treatment. To live justly is to act with consideration for the greater good, seeking solutions that benefit not only ourselves but others as well.

 Justice goes beyond legal frameworks; it is a moral compass that guides us to be accountable, transparent, and compassionate. It encourages us to seek understanding before judgment and to address conflicts with a spirit of reconciliation. Justice fosters mutual respect and trust in family life, ensuring that each person’s needs and voice are considered. In the workplace, it promotes ethical decision-making, fairness in opportunities, and respect for diversity.

By practicing justice, we contribute to creating a world where peace, equity, and understanding prevail. It reminds us that while life may not always be perfectly fair, we can each do our part to ensure fairness in our corner of the world.

 

Affirmations for Justice

1. I will treat everyone with fairness, regardless of their background or status.
This helps remind us to view all individuals as equals, reinforcing impartiality in our interactions.

2. I listen to others with an open heart before making judgments.
Practicing active listening ensures we understand the full picture before taking action, promoting fairness

    3. I seek the truth in every situation, even when it is uncomfortable.
    Truth is the foundation of justice; this affirmation encourages us to be honest with ourselves and others.

    4. I will stand up for those who cannot speak for themselves.
    This helps us to take responsibility for justice by defending those who are vulnerable or marginalized.

    5. I will admit my mistakes and make amends when I am wrong.
    Being willing to correct wrongs shows integrity and strengthens justice in our relationships.

    6. I will not allow my personal feelings to cloud my judgment.
    This helps us practice objectivity, ensuring that decisions are made based on fairness rather than emotion.

    7. I seek balance in all situations, ensuring that the needs of everyone are considered.
    Justice involves weighing different needs, and this affirmation fosters thoughtful decision-making.

    8. I choose to be patient in conflicts, knowing that justice takes time and careful thought.
    Patience allows us to deliberate carefully before acting, ensuring our actions are fair.

    9. I will speak up against injustice, even when it is difficult.
    This reinforces the courage needed to stand against wrongdoing and promote justice in challenging situations.

    10. I believe that every action toward fairness strengthens the bonds of humanity.
    This affirmation connects personal justice to the larger goal of building a more equitable and compassionate world.

    Quotes

    “The world rests on three things: on justice, on truth, and on peace..” — The Talmud (Pirkei Avot 1:18)

    “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

    “At his best, man is the noblest of all animals; separated from law and justice, he is the worst.” — Aristotle

    Justice In Family Life

    Justice in family life is the practice of fairness, respect, and honesty in our daily interactions. For parents, justice means treating each child with fairness while recognizing their unique needs and strengths. It is about setting clear, consistent expectations and being accountable for your words and actions.

    Parents practicing justice ensure that discipline is not about punishment but about teaching and guiding their children toward understanding right from wrong. It also means listening to their children’s perspectives and making decisions that reflect both fairness and love.

    For children, justice means learning to treat their siblings and parents with respect, sharing responsibilities, and understanding the importance of fairness. It involves learning how to admit mistakes, apologize, and make amends when necessary. Children practicing justice begin to understand that everyone’s needs matter and that fairness isn’t always about getting what you want, but about doing what is right.

    In a just family, every member’s voice is valued, and conflicts are resolved with respect and understanding. Justice creates a foundation of trust, where everyone knows they will be treated fairly, heard, and loved. When families practice justice, they build a home where fairness, responsibility, and mutual respect guide their relationships.

    Balancing Virtues

    Several virtues are crucial in maintaining a healthy and balanced sense of Justice.

        • Compassion: Compassion balances Justice by encouraging understanding and empathy, helping individuals see the broader context and consider the feelings and needs of others when assessing fairness.
        • Forgiveness: Forgiveness balances Justice by acknowledging that people make mistakes and deserve an opportunity to rectify them, preventing an overly rigid or unforgiving stance.
        •  Integrity: Integrity balances Justice by ensuring that individuals act consistently with their moral principles and maintain honesty, even when facing difficult choices, thereby upholding fairness and truth.
        • Responsibility: Responsibility balances Justice by reminding individuals of their duty to protect the rights and well-being of others and to address injustices when they encounter them, preventing an underdeveloped sense of Justice characterized by neglect or apathy.

    The balancing virtues can help individuals navigate the complexities of Justice and foster a society that values fairness and equity while promoting harmonious relationships.

    Joe is a husband, father, grandfather, author, speaker, educator, course creator, and parent/family coach.

    He helps parents develop unity, find clarity, communicate, and develop consistency in their parenting with the Four C’s of Successful Families. You can find his work on social media.

    In addition, the Four C’s newsletter is enjoyed by many as it encourages parents to self-care, build their relationships with their partners, and raise their children. 

    And he loves to golf! 

    Joseph Michael
    Kindness

    Joyfulness

    by | Jul 1, 2021 | Virtues

    Description

    Joyfulness is an inner wellspring of peace and happiness. It is beyond the ordinary happiness because it is not an occasional emotional reaction to luck or circumstances. It is a deep sense of wellbeing that fills us with delight and hope. We appreciate the gift of life, and savor its richness. We enjoy simple pleasures. We find the humor in things. We allow joy to carry us through the painful times. We take ourselves lightly and remember to play. Joy comes when we are being true to a soulful purpose. It gives us an abiding sense that all is well.

    Quote

    “Joy gives us wings! In times of joy our strength is more vital, our intellect keener, and our understanding less clouded. We seem better able to cope with the world and to find our sphere of influence.”   — Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p.109

    “The family is where most of the joy comes from.” —Aiden Quinn

    “Find ecstacy in life. The mere sense of living is  joy enough”  — Emily Dickenson

     The Practice of Joyfulness

    • I have a deep sense that life is good.
    • I enjoy the richness of life’s experiences.
    • I appreciate simple pleasures.
    • I am optimistic and hopeful.
    • I am in touch with my purpose.
    • I feel inner peace even when life is difficult.
    Definitions and practices of virtue are used with permission from the Virtues Project™.

    “When it comes to family, happiness means letting go of perfection” –Unknown

    “There is no such thing as the pursuit of happiness, there is only the discovery of joy.”  –Joyce Grenfell

    In Family Life

    Joy is a remarkable sentiment that radiates and thrives within the realm of family life. It possesses an infectious nature that permeates through the hearts of loved ones, manifesting itself in the form of laughter, warmth, and shared experiences. The practice of joy within the family unit goes beyond fleeting moments of happiness; it becomes a way of life, a constant thread interwoven into the fabric of daily existence.

    Within the embrace of family, joy flourishes like a field of wildflowers in full bloom. It is not confined to grand celebrations or extraordinary events but is found in the simplest of gestures and everyday interactions. Joy manifests itself in the laughter that resounds through the corridors of the home, the impromptu dance parties that bring family members closer together, and the shared meals that nourish not only the body but also the soul.

    The practice of joy in family life requires conscious effort and a willingness to appreciate the small moments of beauty and wonder. It is the act of finding delight in the mundane, such as a child’s gleeful laughter or the warmth of a hug exchanged between siblings. It involves creating a positive and nurturing environment where family members feel safe to express their emotions and share their joys and triumphs.

    Furthermore, the practice of joy entails cultivating gratitude for the presence of loved ones in our lives. It involves acknowledging and cherishing the unique qualities and strengths that each family member brings, fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and love. Celebrating achievements, milestones, and even ordinary successes becomes an essential part of the joy-filled family experience.

    The practice of joy is not without challenges, as families may face hardships and adversity along their journey. However, it is during these times that the practice of joy becomes even more vital. Joy allows families to find solace in one another, to lend support, and to navigate difficulties with resilience and optimism. It is a reminder that even amidst the storms of life, there is always a silver lining to be found, and together, families can weather any storm.

    Ultimately, the practice of joy within family life is a transformative and enriching experience. It creates lasting memories, strengthens bonds, and fosters an environment where love, laughter, and happiness can thrive. It is a choice to embrace the beauty and blessings that come with having a family, and to cultivate an atmosphere where joy becomes a natural part of the fabric of everyday life.

    Balancing Joyfulness

    Joyfulness, a virtue that radiates inner peace and happiness, is a truly uplifting aspect of one’s character. To maintain a balanced and healthy sense of joyfulness, it’s essential to cultivate other virtues alongside it.

        • Gratitude: Cultivating gratitude reminds us to appreciate the beauty and abundance in our lives, grounding our joy in a deeper sense of contentment.
        • Moderation: Practicing moderation ensures that joy doesn’t become excessive or hedonistic, helping us maintain a stable and responsible approach to life.
        • Compassion: By embracing compassion, we remain connected to the struggles and challenges of others, allowing us to share our joy and support those in need.
        • Humor: A good sense of humor keeps our joy light and adaptable, enabling us to find laughter even in adversity.

    Joyfulness, when in balance, is a powerful virtue that enhances our well-being and enriches our lives. 

     

    Being Joyful

    Have a good sense of humor.

    Feel an inner peace even when things are tough.

    Enjoy whatever you are doing.

    Appreciate the gifts in your life and in yourself.

    Reflection Questions

    What gives you joy?

    How can you practice joyfulness with things aren’t going well?

    Name three activities that you enjoy.

    Kindness

    Sacrifice

    by | Jun 30, 2021 | Virtues

    Description

    Sacrifice is the willingness to give up something important for something more important. It means to “make sacred”. When we sacrifice for those we care about, it is not a deprivation but a love offering. Sacrificing our time, possessions, our personal comfort and our resources for something we care passionately about gives back to us a hundred fold. It is worth every drop of sweat and every wound we receive. It is in giving our all for a worthy purpose that we receive genuine prosperity.

    Quote

    “We need people who will dare to risk anything and everything to see things different.”

    — Shushobha Barve

     The Practice of Sacrifice

    • I discern my true passion.
    • I offer my love wholeheartedly.
    • I give whatever I can.
    • I invest completely in my life’s purpose.
    • I accept the losses along with the gifts.
    • I am committed to the value of my dreams.
    Definitions and practices of virtue are used with permission from the Virtues Project™.

    In Family Life

    The virtue of sacrifice within a family is exemplified through selflessness and a willingness to put the needs and well-being of loved ones before one’s desires or comfort. It is demonstrated when parents work long hours to provide for their children’s future, when siblings support each other through life’s challenges, or when caregivers devote their time and energy to caring for elderly family members.

    Sacrificing within a family can entail making personal concessions, which can encompass financial, emotional, or physical sacrifices, all in the pursuit of safeguarding the family’s happiness, security, and cohesiveness. It is a cornerstone of strong familial bonds, fostering a sense of mutual trust and dependability that strengthens the family’s resilience and ability to weather life’s trials together.

    Balancing Sacrifice

    When sacrifice is out of balance, it can lead to self-neglect and even self-destruction or manifest as selfishness and a lack of empathy. To maintain a healthy and balanced approach to the virtue of Sacrifice, several other virtues come into play:

    • Compassion: Cultivating compassion allows individuals to understand and empathize with the needs of others without neglecting their own. Compassion encourages a balanced approach to Sacrifice, where helping others stems from genuine care and not from a sense of obligation.
    • Discernment: Discernment helps individuals make wise decisions about when, how, and to what extent to sacrifice. It involves assessing situations carefully and understanding that not every situation requires self-sacrifice.
    • Gratitude: Practicing gratitude helps individuals appreciate the balance between giving and receiving. It fosters a sense of fulfillment in both helping others and receiving help when needed.
    • Empathy: Empathy allows individuals to connect with others on a deeper level, understanding their needs and emotions. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that Sacrifice is motivated by genuine care, not by a desire for recognition or approval.

    Self-Care: Prioritizing self-care is crucial to preventing overdeveloped Sacrifice. People must recognize the importance of taking care of themselves physically and emotionally to be in a position to help others effectively. See the Parenting Priority Pyramid. A balanced approach ensures that individuals can help others without sacrificing their own well-being and maintain healthy relationships with those around them. In doing so, they can truly embody the essence of this virtuous quality, creating a positive and uplifting impact on themselves and the world.

      Kindness

      Initiative

      by | Jun 30, 2021 | Virtues

      Description

      Initiative is originality and creativity in action. When we have initiative, we boldly express new ideas, discover a new method, or find a different way to solve a problem. We lead our lives responsibly. We don’t wait for others to remind us or pressure us into action. We accept responsibility as an engaging opportunity to apply our own ideas. We call on discernment to forge a new way. We use our creativity to bring something new into the world. With initiative, we dare to be original.

      In Family Life

      The virtue of Initiative within a family is exemplified by a proactive and enthusiastic approach to contributing to and participating in various aspects of family life. It’s demonstrated through actions that go beyond mere responsibilities, where family members take the lead in identifying needs and opportunities within the household and take steps to address them without needing constant guidance.

      This could manifest as a teenager organizing a family game night, a child voluntarily helping with chores without being asked, a spouse planning a surprise outing to strengthen familial bonds, or a family member initiating open and honest conversations about important matters. In essence, Initiative in a family context involves a willingness to step up, show leadership, and create positive momentum that benefits the entire family unit.

      Quote

      “Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. ”

      — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

       The Practice of Initiative

      • I have the courage to be original.
      • I solve problems creatively.
      • I see challenges as opportunities.
      • I am confident in initiating untried ideas.
      • I engage in tasks with enthusiasm.
      • I am a pioneer.

      Balancing Initiative

      Initiative is a trait that propels us forward, enabling us to positively impact the world. To keep it in balance, use these virtues:

          • Moderation: By practicing moderation, individuals can channel their creative energies more thoughtfully and avoid the pitfalls of impulsiveness.
          • Courage: Use courage to break free from complacency and embark on new ventures, guided by their own convictions and ideas.
          • Wisdom: Wisdom helps individuals make sound judgments and evaluate their actions’ potential risks and rewards. It encourages us to seek counsel, learn from past experiences, and adapt to changing circumstances.

      With the balance of these virtues, individuals can confidently forge new paths, express creativity, and make a lasting impact on the world, all while maintaining the equilibrium that allows their initiative to shine in its fullest and most constructive form.