Positive Qualities – Genuine & Innovative

Happy New Year,
It is a fact that imagination and the power of thought lift men’s souls to heavenly heights. — Diodorus Siculus (1st Century B.C.) Greek Historian
These two (Genuine & Innovative) would be a good set of qualities to aspire to for the entire year. Or pick one, two, or three others which resonate with you. We are reinventing ourselves every day. Having a set of high ideals will light the way.
Peace,
Jim
            GENUINE
Definitions: (1) sincere and frank; honest and forthright; (2) real; true; authentic; not artificial; not counterfeit <a genuine manuscript>
Synonyms: natural, unadulterated, unaffected, veritable
Comment: When, on the one hand, one seems genuine and honest, but on the other hand, has selfish motives, their true purpose cannot really be known until time clarifies it. However you may be able to see through their facade from the outset. If not, wait patiently, eventually the individual will show themself. Remember the old saying: “Actions speak louder than words.”
Sometimes people say they are motivated by a set of positive qualities and yet are taking steps and actions going against the very qualities they profess to hold in such high regard.
            INNOVATIVE
Definition: able to change or alter yourself or the situation by introducing something new
Compatible Quality: cooperative
Quote:
Discovery consists of seeing what everyone has seen, and thinking what no one has thought.
— Albert Szent-Gyorgyi (1893-1986) Hungarian Physiologist, 1937 Nobel Laureate
Consider the Source



Positive Qualities – Presence of Mind & Clever

Dear Folks,
Whatever the mind is taught to expect, that it will build, produce, and bring forth for you. — The Dynamic Laws of Prosperity, Catherine Ponder (1927-) Minister, Author
The mind is a very flexible tool. We can dump information into it, sort and separate what we have learned, come up with new and Clever ideas, and take imaginative trips. We can teach it to have Presence of Mind. It is hardwired with the fundamental ability to know the difference between fact and fantasy, right and wrong, and – best of all – it recognizes values: good, better, and best.
Peace,
Jim
            PRESENCE OF MIND
Definition: able to think clearly and act quickly and intelligently <especially in an emergency>; cool, alert, and ready under pressure; quick-witted
Compatible Qualities: creative, risible
Comment: Presence of mind is a quality of “practical smarts.” It includes flexibility and ready retrieval of information. But it is also the ability to put things together in new ways. In addition it implies a sense of timing, with an appreciation of the subtlety of what others perceive.
Suggestion: Recognize, in the present, what effect your actions are having upon the situation, and then act accordingly.
            CLEVER
Definitions: (1) mentally quick and resourceful; quick‑witted; astute; bright; (2) skillful or adroit in using the hands or body; nimble; dexterous; talented; (3) something ingeniously or expertly made, said, or done
Parental Qualities: courage, curiosity
Symbol: the fox

Consider the Source



Positive Qualities – Fair & Relaxed

Dear Folks,
Share everything. Play fair. Don’t hit people. Put things back where you found them. Clean up your own mess. Don’t take things that aren’t yours. Say you’re sorry when you hurt somebody. Wash your hands before you eat. Flush. Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you. Live a balanced life. Learn some, and think some and draw and plan and sing and dance and play and work every day some. — Robert Fulghum (1937-) Elementary Solutions
Life is not inherently Fair. It is up to each of us to bring that quality into it. Some things and values have been given to us by the gifts of nature and grace, others we have the privilege of creating within the flow of subjective reality. Often it is difficult, and yet just as often if we just Relax and trust, the answers will come to mind.
Peace,
Jim
            FAIR
Definitions: (1) all sides treating each other impartially; just; equitable; (2) pleasing to the eye or mind <especially because of fresh, charming, or flawless traits>; lovely; beautiful; attractive; (3) free from anything which might impair the appearance, quality, or character; clean; pure; (4) pleasant and courteous; civilSynonyms: candid, clear, frank, honest, open, reasonable, unprejudiced
Comment: Every circumstance cannot be fair, but if all parties enter a situation with an attitude of fairness, they will have a better chance of ending up with a satisfactory outcome for all. Take into consideration not only a concern for your interests, but also a healthy concern for the other person’s interests.
            RELAXED
Definitions: (1) possessing an easy manner; informal; (2) free from or relieved of tension or anxiety
Too Far: lax, lazy
Saying: En pantoufles (French): “In slippers” [at ease, informal]
The Quick Crisis Escape
There are situations in which you find yourself overloaded. You are tense, uncomfortable, and wishing you could just be someplace else, or at least in a more relaxed state, but you can’t. It could be a test at school, an important game, or a half dozen people have to have their report done right now. Neither your fight nor flight mechanisms are appropriate. The only thing left is flow. You don’t have time for your usual, tried and true relaxation method, but you’ve just got to cool out.
Here’s what you do. First, you don’t get anything for free. There is some preparation necessary. So you condition yourself to be momentarily, and quickly, transported to a special inner place of peace and strength. While you are there, you trigger an intensely positive, and thus relaxing, experience focused into a few very powerful moments. It is best to use a real historical event in a very exceptional place. When you do have the time, enhance the experience to keep it fresh with regular practice. As you re‑experience this wonderfully uplifting place, you are creating an “energy gem” – a feeling you can release with full clarity and force on a designated clue. This gem is packed with sharp, familiar information encompassing all six of senses. The more complete your inner experience, the more intense will be its release.
It is important the external environment of your special place be very satisfactory, but also it must include a rich internal landscape. Feel your true and most valuable qualities. And, depending upon the situation, incorporate a prime quality that would be just right to infuse into the environment at hand. You know your wants and desires. You know when you are comfortable and happy. Use these criteria as friends. Bring them back with you into even the most difficult situations.
Connect the release to a common physical and socially acceptable action, such as rubbing your eyes or the back of your neck, stretching, or a few deep breaths. It is best if you can close your eyes for at least a few seconds, to close down all external information and release the internal experience into your being. This is no luxurious soak; it is a sudden wave. Your body, mind, and spirit will be fooled into staying where you have just been. The people around you need not know you just took a delightful and powerful little trip.
Things To Help Relaxation:
• Cuddles
• Massage
• Flotation
• Laughter
• Hot water
• Being in a safe situation
• A diversion – something familiar
• A diversion – something different
• Being with somebody you like and are comfortable with
Colors: blue, turquoise, violet
Consider the Source


Positive Qualities – Laudable & Stylish

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Joyful Kwanzaa, Blessed Solstice,
Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. — Islam, Muhammad, The Farewell Sermon
Here’s hoping your holidays are filled with Style. Laud the Lord.
Peace,
Jim
            LAUDABLE
Definition: praiseworthy; commendable
How to Live This Quality Today: Do what you are supposed to do.
            STYLISH
Definitions: (1) characterized by or conforming to the current fashion; smart or chic; (2) a unique combination of charming elements; individualistic
Synonyms: elegant, fashionable
Quote:
Style is the dress of thought. Style is the outward manifestation of our inner spirituality.
— Reverend Leo Booth (1946 – ) British-American Author, Say Yes to Your Spirit
Consider the Source



Positive Qualities – Moderate & Tractable

Dear Folks,
Our brains develop according to the mental activities that we engage in intensely. . . . [T]here is opportunity for the development of a different perception of reality. — Anton Zeilinger, (1945 – ) Quantum Physicist
As a society we tend to give the greatest accolades and rewards to those with aggressive qualities, the bold and the brave. Yet a Moderate and balanced set of qualities give a person the most attractive and harmonious soul. Be willing to learn. Tractable is a foundation quality.
Peace,
Jim
            MODERATE
Definitions: (1) keeping within reasonable bounds; temperate; sober; steady; avoiding excesses and extremes; (2) mild; calm; gentle; nonviolent
Saying: Meden agan (Greek); Ne quid nimis (Latin): “Nothing in excess”
            TRACTABLE
Definitions: (1) easily taught; malleable; (2) allowing oneself to be managed; compliant; docile
Comments:
• It is a pleasure for a teacher to see a student striving to learn. Those students (gifted or not) who apply themselves are the most satisfying.
• It is a great joy for managers to have on their team people who are professional – people who are willing to cooperate within the team as well as take initiative on their own.
• In our culture we have a funny mix. We value both independence as well as strict adherence to social convention. Sometimes it is wise to keep your mouth shut, and other times to ask questions.

Consider the Source



Student Ministry: 7 Checkpoints

7 Checkpoints Curriculum Strategy for Students is an intentional, systematic approach to discipleship focused on the content of discipleship. These seven student-specific principles are the irreducible minimum. The authors are convinced that these seven basic principles every student should understand, commit to memory and embrace before they leave the safety of their homes and youth ministries. These are the must know, can’t be without principles. They are not all that is important. But they are what are most important for students. They are as follows:

  • Check point #1 – Authentic Faith

Principle – Can God be trusted that he will do what He has promised to do.
Critical question: Are our students trusting God with the critical areas of their lives?
Key passage – Proverbs 3:5-6

  • Checkpoint #2 – Spiritual Discipline

Principle – When you see as God sees, you will do as God says.
Critical question – Are our students developing a consistent devotional prayer life.
Key passage – Romans 12:2

  • Checkpoint #3 – Moral Boundaries

Principle – Purity paves the way to intimacy
Critical question – Are our students established and maintaining Godly moral boundaries?
Key passage – I Thessalonians 4:3-8

  • Checkpoint #4 – Healthy Friendships

Principle – Your friends will determine the direction and quality of your life.
Critical question–Are our students establishing healthy friendships and avoiding unhealthy ones?
Key passage – Proverbs 13:20

  • Checkpoint #5 – Wise Choices

Principle – Walk wisely
Critical question – Are our students making wise choices in every area of their lives?
Key passage – Ephesians 5:15-17

  • Checkpoint #6 – Ultimate Authority

Principle – Maximum freedom is found under God’s authority.
Critical question – Are our students submitting to the authorities God has placed over them?
Key passage – Romans 13:1-2

  • Checkpoint #7 – Others First

Principle – Consider others before yourself
Critical question – Are our students putting the needs of others ahead of their own?
Key passage – Philippians 2:3-11

Consider the Source



Positive Qualities – Merry & Venturesome

Dear Folks,
Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk. — The Dalai Lama
One who is Venturesome derives great please from the new, and difficult, experience. There is risk in life, and if we can assess it in a Merry light, we may be able to take it as it comes. No matter the experience, we learn from it.
Peace,
Jim
        MERRY
Definitions: (1) full of fun and laughter; lively and mirthful; joyous; (2) marked by cheerfulness or festivity
Synonyms: blithe, jocund, jolly, jovial, sportive, sprightly, vivacious, merry‑andrew
Note: The term “merry‑andrew” <one whose business it is to make fun of others> is said to have originated with one Andrew Borde (c. 1 490-1549 ) , a physician in the time of Henry VIII (1 491-1547 ) , who attracted attention and gained patients by making facetious speeches.
Saying: Gaudeamus igitur (Latin): “Let us then be merry.”
Proverb: A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance. — The Bible, Proverbs 15:13
Mythological Figure: Momus , the Greek god of laughter
        VENTURESOME
Definition: prone to taking risks in spite of possible danger or loss; eager for adventure; daring
Synonyms: bold, brave, courageous, intrepid
Compatible Quality: lucky
Consider the Source



The Influence of Stephen Covey

His was a positive influence. And as the world morns the loss of Stephen Covey we have highlighted his Seven Habits in the hope that you will make them your own. We highly recommend buying his book and digging a bit deeper into the qualities that have changed the lives of so many who value personal growth.
1) Be Proactive
As human beings, we are responsible for our own lives. We have the independent will to make our own choices and decisions, and the responsibility (“the ability to respond”) to make the right choices. You have the freedom to choose your own fate and path, so having the independent will, imagination and self-awareness to make the right move makes you a proactive, and not a reactive, person.
2) Begin With The End In Mind
Mental visualization is extremely important. Covey says that all things are created twice: first, the mental conceptualization and visualization and a second physical, actual creation. Becoming your own creator means to plan and visualize what you’re going to do and what you’re setting out to accomplish and then go out and creating it. Identifying your personal statement and your principles will help.
3) Put First Things First
With your power of independent will, you can create the ending you want to have. Part of that comes with effective time management, starting with matters of importance. Then tasks should be completed based on urgency after you deal with all the important matters. If you deal with crises, pressing problems and deadline-driven projects first, your life will be a lot easier.
4) Think Win/Win
If you believe in a better way to accomplish goals that’s mutually beneficial to all sides, that’s a win/win situation. “All parties feel good about the decision and feel committed to the action plan,” Covey wrote. “One person’s success is not achieved at the expense or exclusion of the success of others.” If you have integrity and maturity, there’s no reason win/win situations can’t happen all the time.
5) Seek First To Understand, Then To Be Understood
If you’re a good listener and you take the time to understand a concept, it will help you convey your opinions, plans and goals to others. It starts with communication and strong listening skills, followed by diagnosing the situation and then communicating your solution to others.
6) Synergize
Synergistic communication, according to Covey, is “opening your mind and heart to new possibilities, new alternatives, new options.” This applies to the classroom, the business world and wherever you could apply openness and communication. It’s all about building cooperation and trust.
7) Sharpen The Saw
Sometimes you’re working so hard on the other six habits that you forget about re-energizing and renewing yourself to sharpen yourself for the tasks in front of you. Some sharpening techniques include exercise and nutrition, reading, planning and writing, service and empathy and commitment, study and meditation.

For those considering an in depth exploration of Positive Qualities, we also recommend the work of Jim Downs. His Positive Qualities Chart and the companion book are essential references. The Positive Qualities Company website gives an overview of the attributes embraced by Covey and others making the most of this life.
Consider the Source



Humor in Religion

To false religion, humor remains one of the most dreaded adversaries. Humor punctures the pomposities of theological arrogance with an efficacy wondrous to behold. — Vern Bennom Grimsley (1964)



Unbroken Communion

Here we have not to do with the union of absorption, but with a union that grows out of reciprocal intercourse, a union of heart and will and intellect; and such a union is possible only between personal beings. Only the personality of God makes possible the union of communion with him.  —Albert C. Knudson (1930)