Building character

THE EDITOR: It is sometimes said “the big door of leadership swings on the small hinge of character.” As citizens of this cosmopolitan, rainbow country it is important to build and exemplify the tenets of sound character.

We are potters and architects of what we reap. Our manner of speech and general deportment produce a crescendo effect which can have a damaging effect on the character development of our youths. Consequently, our present existence and the future of our nation may be bleak.

Poor leadership creates undesired sparks that resuscitate the societal monsters of murder, car theft, house breaking, rape, gang violence, prostitution and domestic abuse.

These problems were not brought to us by aliens. They all lie within us and we have the power of transforming our nation by firstly changing our character. The ball is in our hands.

There is need for us to display desirable qualities. For example, having patience, showing compassion, displaying hospitality, expressing concern and, above all, exemplifying genuine love.

Moreover, we must apply anger management in our interaction with others. We must therefore resolve to display exemplary conduct in the home, workplace and wherever we may go.

Always remember that we do not have to be rocket scientists or geniuses to change the character of others. All we need to do is become proper exemplars.

LINDSEY RAMPERSAD

via e-mail