July 2006
Misdirection
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A famous executive walked up to an airport ticket counter minutes before his flight's departure. Upon learning he had missed his plane, the executive exploded, "I've been flying with this airline for fifteen years!... What's the matter with you?... I don't want a flight in two hours; I want a flight right now, and it had better be an aisle seat!"
The ticket agent found another plane to Los Angeles, and the executive finally walked away.
The other ticket agents marveled at their colleague's restraint.
"Steve, how did you handle that guy?" Gina asked.
"It isn't that complicated," Steve replied. "He's going to Los Angeles, and I sent his baggage to Dallas."
Instead of getting angry or getting even, develop the habits and perspectives to harness your emotions and respond constructively.
Anger at Work
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You are running late when someone cuts you off and you miss an exit. Traffic is heavier than normal, and you can't find a decent song on the radio. Your boss has to hold up a meeting for you, and your coffee cup slips and dowses your keyboard.
Though you might resist the urge to scream at the other motorist or your boss, days like this can threaten to push you over the edge if you do not develop the necessary meekness.
Anger signals that something is wrong. When a kitchen timer rings, the cook responds by taking the food out of the oven. When a fire alarm sounds, the problem is not the alarm but the fire itself. Ignoring the alarms in your life will only allow the problems to get worse.
Recognize anger. Common signs of anger include a raised voice, glaring eyes, clenched teeth, or heavy breathing. Some people become irritable, impatient, argumentative, or verbally abusive when they feel angry. Others cut off communication.
By identifying the signs of anger, you can begin to discern exactly what caused your anger and decide how to resolve the problem. You can take responsibility for not thinking ahead and drive more defensively. You can choose to show deference, even when the heavy traffic slows you down. You can apologize for being late and make a mental note to adjust your schedule on future occasions. You can remember to set your coffee down carefully before turning on your computer.
These events are never pleasant, but by taking responsibility to face each challenge separately, you can make a positive contribution to others' lives.
Vacation Plans
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Before you set out on your next family vacation, make plans to see the character reminders along the way.
Many vacation spots have a rich history, and you and your children can make it a point to draw character lessons from each historical figure. In New England, learn about John and Abigail Adams and their contribution to the founding of America. Visit Plymouth Rock and consider the gentleness, endurance, and boldness of Miles Standish, Tisquantum, William Bradford, and Chief Massasoit.
Western National Parks provide an opportunity to experience the outdoors and observe deer, porcupines, bison, and black bears as they illustrate attentiveness, gratefulness, honor, and self-control. See how many other character qualities you see illustrated by the animals you encounter.
Battlegrounds such as Lexington, Gettysburg, and Pearl Harbor serve as solemn reminders of the sacrifices others have made for the freedom we enjoy. Portraits, statues, or memorials for notable men and women can motivate us to emulate greatness.
Don't settle for an ordinary vacation. Look for the lessons beneath the surface, and reap the rewards for years to come.
Character Education in the Sunshine State
During the June Character Community Network session, Lisa Hamilton and Susan Emrich outlined the Character Council of Florida's activities.
Florida law requires character education in grades K-12, and the Character Council of Florida has promoted Character First! curriculum as part of its character emphasis. Efforts have included press releases, e-mail blasts, billboards, magazine articles, a web page, presentations to civic gatherings, and a "Character Education" information booth at the School Administrators Conference in Orlando.
The Council co-sponsored the first annual Black History Month writing contest. Fifty students participated in three age categories. First, second, and third place winners in each category received a cash prize.
The Council also sponsors after-school programs and 4-H Character Clubs for at-risk children.
Visit www.characterfla.org or www.charactercities.org for more information.
