|
|
|
Benevolence (vs. selfishness)
...pursuing the good of others without needing a personal reward for acts of kindness.
December 2011
|
|
|
|
|
Dear Employee,
Our monthly newsletter focuses on the Character Trait for that month, giving examples of practical application to the definition of the trait. Please feel free to share with your friends, family, and co-workers. Our goal is to have a community that is grounded on the principles of good character, with our citizens exhibiting a spirit of excellence in how we conduct our lives.
Share your vision!
Boo Rogers
Prattville-Autauga Character Coalition, Inc.
|
|
|
What is Benevolence?
It has been defined as a disposition to do good, an act of kindness, or to give a generous gift. It's easy to feel benevolent toward all mankind during the holiday season. However, once the gifts are opened and the decorations stowed away until next year, many individuals put on the guise of benevolence only if they think they will receive recognition or be rewarded for their "goodness". Sadly, benevolence towards others comes out mostly during special times of the year. In Order to Become Truly Benevolent...
one must try to understand the other person. The old adage that you "can't judge a book by its cover" has never been more true than it is today. The dreadful economic situation that we find ourselves in has drastically changed the lives of many. Extremely intelligent and educated citizens now find themselves without jobs. Families who once lived in nice homes now find themselves living in a homeless shelter, under a bridge, or in a car.
Others may be overwhelmed by terrible addictions or post-traumatic stress as payment for serving their country.
We must never look down our noses at those that are less fortunate. It is an act of kindness when we willingly give them a warm meal, a lift, or a suggestion about where to look for a job or adequate affordable housing. Do not be condescending or patronizing. Be genuine and offer encouragement. Your acts of kindness are immeasurable and you may never receive any thanks or knowledge of the outcome.
Benevolence in the workplace is extremely important. When deadlines are looming, it is important that you roll up your sleeves to help others who may be falling behind. Relationships can be strengthened and the atmosphere in the workplace may become friendlier just because a gift of kindness and assistance was given when needed. |
|
"A poor man served by thee, shall make thee rich."
Elizabeth Barrett Browning, English poetess. 1806-1861
|
|
Can You Be Benevolent at the Grocery Store or in Traffic?
Of course you can, but it might take more practice.
Be slow to anger in traffic. It could save your life or a bent fender at best. If the motorist is driving too slow or erratically, it could be that it is a senior citizen who doesn't see or hear as well as they once did. Blowing a horn, shouting and exhibiting other forms of road rage does nothing but raise your blood pressure and stress level. Back off and let motorists merge or change lanes if that is their intent. If a fender bender results, safely stop and lend a hand and a friendly smile. Offer to call the police. Wait with the driver of the other car until help arrives. Remember, one day you may need the same assistance.
Do your part to save lives and soothe nerves of others when you are behind the wheel. Don't text, talk on your cell phone, have loud music on the radio, or become otherwise distracted. |
|
"Try to be some use to others."
Joseph Hall, English cleric, writer. 1574-1656
|
|
Are Good Manners Out of Style?
A trip to the supermarket may lead you to think that absolutely no one has good manners any more.
The intersection at the end of the grocery aisle can be as dangerous and nerve racking as a car running a yield sign. It's all for one, and none for all. Shoppers block the aisle as they talk loudly over their cell phones and divulge more personal information than you ever wanted to know.
Nowadays, phones can be heard ringing in church, movies, at weddings, funerals and other special or sacred events and places.
Always turn your phone off before entering public places. Gently remind your friends and others around you to do the same. This is a small thing, but demonstrates that manners are important to you and others will follow suit.
Do a small act of kindness by letting someone who has only a few items go in front of you at the checkout. Don't fume and fuss to other shoppers while a customer sorts through the contents of her purse looking for special coupons. Here, a smile and a calm voice can work wonders. Offer to help take items out of the cart.
Hold the door open for someone struggling with a small child and an overloaded cart. Avoid rudeness, even if you are surrounded by extremely rude people.
Don't bump cars in the parking lot with your cart or car door. Return the cart to a designated area. Never park in a spot set aside for those with physical disabilities. This is the height of rudeness.
Remember that your calmness, helpfulness and good manners are acts of benevolence and can have a soothing effect on those around you.
|
|
The Prattville-Autauga Character Coalition, a non-profit organization, has as its mission to foster character development among all citizens. We believe that character can be changed by example and by education. We also believe that the future of our county depends on the good character of its citizens. If you would like more information, to make a donation, or to be otherwise involved in one of our focus groups: Business - Professional; Education - Enrichment - Workforce Development; Faith - Ethics; Family; Government - Social Services, please contact Boo Rogers, Executive Director at 365-7392. Our office is located in the Prattville Chamber of Commerce building, 131 North Court Street, Prattville, Alabama 36067. |
|
|
With Practice...
Good manners and benevolence start in the home. We teach our children good manners and the Golden Rule "Do under others as you would have them do unto you." As adults, me must remember what we were taught and become an example to others. With a kind heart and loving spirit, we can accomplish true benevolence no matter where we may be, or in what situation we find ourselves. Doing good for others without expecting a reward or a "thank you" becomes its own reward.
|
"He that does good to another does good to himself, not only in consequence, but in the very act: for the consciousness of well-being is in itself ample reward."
Lucius Annaeus Seneca, Roman philosopher and writer, 3BCE-AD65) |
|
|
We wish for you, your family and friends a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy, peaceful and prosperous New Year.
Prattville-Autauga Character Coalition 
For more information, contact Boo Rogers, Executive Director, Prattville-Autauga Character Coalition www.pacharacter.com or 334-365-7392. Character First Information used by permission. | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
