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KIDS OF CHARACTER 2/02/2009
Concentrating On The Character Call Thomas Edison was asked, “What do you think is the first requisite for success in your field, or any other?” He replied, “The ability to apply your physical and mental energies to one problem incessantly without growing weary.” Edison’s genius might be characterized in his response. Certainly, his endless capacity to keep focused while stepping through experimental failure led him to harnessing energy into utilitarian light. Parents, grandparents, coaches and teachers can bring immense benefit to the kids they serve as mentors for character by applying Edison’s pearl of great price. The character mentor’s job requires a concentration that does not grow weary. The skill of tireless concentration is the fuel that drives a character mentor. Having spent my professional life guiding adults to acquire skills to make a contribution to the world around them, I now understand that the mental, emotional, and spiritual capacity for single-pointed concentration is the great catalyst that determines one’s own life growth and one’s support to the growth of another. A mentor who cares about life skills development of kids must put their eyes on the long haul and the big picture. Character mentors can’t successfully function with instant gratification. Kids need character mentors who will concentrate on life themes like respect, caring, trustworthiness, moral courage and responsibility while understanding that the integration of these life skills to shape a moral compass requires years and years of practice. A character mentor concentrates tirelessly on life skills character development that might be characterized as a journey of encouragement. Yes, character mentors encourage. They provide hope to kids by being a source of character information and modeling. Do character guides have opportunities to see the light go on with those they mentor? Certainly. Such moments, when the behavior of a youngster conforms to the highest ideals of humanity, are thrilling to the mentor. The mentor sees that the light is ON in a child. Such moments affirm the steady concentrated encouragement work of the mentor…to continue focusing on a young person’s discovery that their own light of nobility is found through the practice of virtuous living.
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