The Real Life Attributes of a Good Person: Understanding True Virtue

A good person is one who not only has a personal relationship with God but also maintains a right relationship with their fellowman. Humility, loving kindness, and responsibility are among the many attributes of a good person, but the real challenge lies in applying these principles in the face of ambiguity and adversity.

Conscience as a Guiding Light

A good person strives to follow their conscience, even under duress and in the face of personal loss. Conscience is our inner guide, albeit often ambiguous. We must accept this ambiguity and work to make the best choices, even if they are messy and confusing. Hiding from knowledge, to maintain innocence, can lead to avoiding responsibility and making poor decisions. However, hiding from knowledge is one of the greatest evils on earth, as it prevents us from improving ourselves and the lives of others.

Taking Responsibility for Choices

One of the most important attributes of a good person is taking full responsibility for their choices. This means being careful and thoughtful when making decisions and trying to avoid mistakes. When one takes responsibility for their actions, it is harder to choose a negative path. Being accountable for your actions can help you to grow and improve.

Practical Attributes of a Good Person

In the real world, a good person displays a variety of practical virtues. Here are some examples:

Picking up after your dog Respecting other drivers Respecting your neighbors Giving more than you take Expecting nothing in return Doing unto others as you would have them do unto you Thinking before you speak Listening purposefully

Another important attribute is understanding that both oneself and one's fellow human beings are equal. A good person treats others with dignity and acknowledges that money does not make a person more important or special, but can provide more opportunities.

Letting Others Live

A good person respects others' freedom to live their own lives. This is a fundamental principle of good character: Live and let live. By allowing others to pursue their own paths, one creates a space for mutual respect and growth.

Much like the famous quote, 'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,' a good person lives with the understanding that they should extend to others the same treatment that they would wish to receive. They approach life with a sense of well-being and positivity, recognizing the importance of personal and communal growth.

Conclusion: Being a good person is an ongoing journey that involves continually striving to improve our own character and to live more compassionately and responsibly. By focusing on the attributes of a good person, we can work towards a more virtuous and fulfilling life.