Jim Downs

SELF-SUFFICIENT Definitions: (1) able to maintain oneself without outside aid; capable of providing for one’s own needs; self-realizing; (2) having confidence in one’s own resources or powers; self-reliant; autarky <a country, state, or society which is economically independent> Balancing Qualities: Open-hearted, Open-minded Quote: The snow itself is lonely or, if you prefer, self-sufficient. There is … Read more

Precocious Definition: exhibiting mature qualities at an unusually early age Quotes: The grim fact is that we prepare for war like precocious giants, and for peace like retarded pygmies. — Lester “Mike” Bowles Pearson (1897-1972) Canadian diplomat What might be taken for a precocious genius is the genius of childhood. When the child grows up, … Read more

PATTERN Divine Definitions: (1) The discernible, coherent design upon which to base the total system; (2) The original arrangement and example of form; (3) The primary, discrete set of priorities from which all things are derived; (4) The fundamental model for all subsequent reality; (5) The physical, personal, mindal, and spiritual guide showing the way; … Read more

MODERN Definition: up-to-date; contemporary; not old-fashioned or obsolete; recent; fresh; new; novel; with-it Quotes: Fire made us human; fossil fuels made us modern, but now we need a new fire that makes us safe, secure, healthy, and durable. — Amory Bloch Lovins (1947-) American physicist Even more amazing than modern technology is our opportunity to … Read more

INVITING Divine Definitions: (1) Courteously requesting participation; attracting; (2) Opening the way; showing the course; alluring; (3) Eliciting wholesome desire; satisfying, (4) The essence of tact, finesse, and subtlety; (5) The most magnetic personality; charismatic; charming; (6) Able to make Himself evident to us; (7) Engaging; likable Comment: God asks us to allow ourselves to … Read more

When you are tempted to be meddlesome reach for your tender Lionheart and be Mettlesome instead. The qualities which are most often abused need to be balanced the most. Power is very seductive. Bring into play fairness, reasonableness, compromise, and all-powerful love. LIONHEARTED Definition: exceptionally courageous or strong; magnanimous Quote: The truth is like a … Read more

Justice does not stand alone. As Lady Justice demonstrates, balance is essential. We can also include fairness and patience, and even kindness and mercy. As the old clergyman said, “There, but for the grace of God, go I. Thus, adding humility and empathy to the list. JUST Divine Definitions: (1) The Divine arbiter; (2) Conforming … Read more

INNOCENT Definitions: (1) free from guilt or sin <especially through lack of knowledge of evil>; blameless; faultless; (2) without guile or cunning; lacking sophistication; ingenuous Synonyms: clean-handed, immaculate, pure, simple, spotless, undefiled, virtuous Quotes: Innocence is one of the most exciting things in the world. — Eartha Mae Kitt [born Eartha Mae Keith] (1927-2008) American … Read more

ENCOURAGING Definitions: (1) inspiring with courage, hope, and confidence; inspiriting; (2) generating positive anticipation for success; spurring on; stimulating Synonyms: animating, cheering, emboldening, heartening Quotes: A pat on the back is only a few vertebrae removed from a kick in the pants, but is miles ahead in results. — Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1850-1919) American author … Read more

AUTONOMOUS Definitions: (1) undertaken or carried on without outside control; self-contained; self-guided; self-taught; (2) independent; self-governing; self-ruling; (3) acting in accordance with one’s moral duty rather than one’s desires; self-starter Derivation: Greek, “having its own laws” Quotes: Listen to the desires of your children. Encourage them and then give them the autonomy to make their … Read more