May 2008

Seeing the Obvious

bowling shoes and ball
 A man was concerned about a loud clunking sound when he drove around corners, and he had his mechanic look at it for a day.

The mechanic made a right turn and heard a clunk. Then he made a left turn and again heard a clunk.

Back at the shop, the mechanic opened the trunk and wrote the following instructions for the owner: "Remove bowling ball from trunk."


Seeds of Corruption

the Roman Coliseum
The Greeks made the first attempt at democracy, created dazzling architecture, and produce an impressive list of philosophers. But corruption eventually undermined its government, its business, and the lives of its citizens, and it became susceptible to foreign attack.

The Roman Empire conquered and organized the known world. Its citizens enjoyed prosperity and power. But today historians look back on "The Rise and the Fall of the Roman Empire."

The ancient Incas developed brain surgery, built sophisticated water works, and built great cities and roads. Then power struggles and civil conflict weakened the empire.

Without character, even great societies fall. Reject corruption, and build a foundation of good character.


For Kids—Little Choices

a jar of glass marbles
A wise person knows the truth and puts it into practice every day!

Imagine a jar full of marbles. Every time you make a good decision, it is like adding a marble to the jar. The more good decisions you make, the "wiser" you become. Each wrong or foolish decision is like taking a marble out.

Every choice is important, including the friends you make, the books you read, the programs you watch, and how you spend your free time.

Apply good character to every decision!


Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A, 2008

A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

A hopeful society helps ensure that its citizens develop the character, knowledge, and skills they need to succeed. On Education and Sharing Day, we underscore our dedication to encouraging our Nation's youth to build a solid foundation for a lifetime of accomplishment.

 

The White House

Education and Sharing Day pays tribute to the unique efforts of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe. The Rebbe helped create numerous education and outreach centers, which continue to provide social service programs and humanitarian aid at home and around the globe.

On this day and throughout the year, we encourage our children to set high goals, make the right choices, and put character first. By instilling respect, responsibility, civic duty, compassion, and honesty in our youth, we can help more of our citizens realize the great promise of America.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 16, 2008, as Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A. I call upon government officials, educators, volunteers, and all the people of the United States to reach out to young people and work to create a better, brighter, and more hopeful future for all.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifteenth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Proclamation Source: http://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2008/04/20080416-2.html

Other Character News: http://www.characterfirst.com/aboutus/inthenews/