By Dr Charles Leyman Kachitsa
That which shapes human character has to be discovered by self through deliberate processes from the time one is born. From the time a person is introduced to this world, they begin to influence their surrounding starting with the conduct and direction taken of their parents or guardians which has to take account of another being whilst before they did not have such responsibility.
What shapes us is more than the people around us within our reach, but also society in general and the nation which extends to the happenings in the world at a particular time one is alive. Character is shaped by ones surrounding environment, ones experiences, foresight and the willingness to knowing that which is not known. All of course depends on the culture one is born in which places what has to be valued as the upper most things in informing character.
Most importantly if one is enlightened, would know that knowing ones purpose on earth through foresight is the key to getting it right in shaping character. Your purpose on earth determines how you shape your character. Otherwise without knowledge as the Bible states, people perish. It therefore remains for you to pray for that which enable one to have foresight, to have discernment which leads to knowing that positive purpose which is hidden.
The quotes this week are a final extraction from the book that when read in full you realise its immerse wisdom in letters which have practical tips for living a positive happy life of satisfaction and fulfilment. I am sure the few selected quotations from this book listed below will enlighten you to one or two life lessons. Read and enjoy:
LETTERS FROM J.D ROCKEFELLER TO HIS SON – Perspective, ideology and Wisdom
“… A clear and decisive purpose will allow us to focus on the chosen direction and allow us to try our best to achieve the goal. —- My experience tells me that the tasks a person accomplishes, and his ultimate performance are closely related to the nature and power of his purpose and have almost nothing to do with what he does for his goal. Think about it, there is no game of golf that can be completed in one stroke. You need to complete the holes one by one. The goal of each stroke is to get get as close to the hole as possible.”
“The biggest challenge for leaders is how to create an environment in which people feel that being open is more comfortable than hiding the truth. Proactively invite others to state their thoughts and encourage them to speak out with words such as ‘say a little more’ or ‘I really want to hear your opinion.’ Contrary to what most people believe, in a dialogue, the listener is the one who has the power, not the declarant.”
“One person cannot dominate a team, I do not deny the great role of leaders, but on the whole, victory depends on the team. Any honour I get depends on the strength of the team, and not myself alone. Only when everyone works hard can they believe and expect miracles.”
“In order to stay away from the storm of crisis, we must constantly formulate new strategies while adjusting the old plans. While responding to the daily changes in the business environment, we must also revise the long-term process based on changes in the situation. In this way, not only can we maintain a flexibility in the short term, and in the long run, we also have a clear concept of a flexible ideal goal that can meet the latest economic environment, We can put stale strategic plans on the shelf and move forward to vibrant environment with energy and hope.”
“Salaries and bonuses are quite attractive, but for some people, money does not trigger their motivation to serve, but paying attention can achieve this goal. In my opinion, everyone aspires to be considered valuable, valued, and respected by others. There is an invisible sign hanging on everyone’s forehead, which says: Value me!”
“The primary responsibility of salt is to a salty taste. The salty taste of salt symbolizes a noble, powerful and truly religious life. So, what should we use our wealth, principles, and beliefs for? Undoubtedly, we must be the salt of the world, actively serve the society, and benefit the world. This is each of us and the last social responsibility.”
