Things Are Not What They Used To Be

Greatness of Character

By Joe Renna

People who achieve a certain level of success are distinguished in today's society. And though their achievements may be great, it doesn't make them great people. Morals and ethics have deteriorated over time. Our value system is rewritten every generation. Some edits are improvements to that code of honor but most are detrimental.

There are a slew of circumstances that could elevate a person to celebrity status. There are big names in art, entertainment, sports, business, science and government. The highest achievers are rewarded with power, money and praise. And rightfully so. Those who achieved greatness through innovation and exploration should be commended. Those who take risks and make sacrifices for the good of humanity are true heroes. It is important to recognize greatness for it is the inspiration for our youth.

Over time, the rewriting of our value system has changed the criteria for greatness. By doing so, society has done a disservice to our youth. Power and money have now become the main factors in defining greatness. Integrity is no longer featured.

Wealth has always aroused curiosity. It used to be that a garish lifestyle to someone of modest means was akin to a carnival sideshow. Though the amenities were nice, the people were perceived as being pathetic. The trade off for living the life of luxury was losing touch with the simple pleasures of life. Happiness was once measured by personal satisfaction. When wealth is the motivation, happiness is sought by having a higher bank book balance. That could never be satisfied.

Wealth, in and of itself, is not the target of this criticizm. It is the character of the wealthy person that is objectionable. Before any praise is bestowed people, they must be evaluated not by how they acquired their wealth but what they have done with their lives. If they used their rewards and gifts in a noble way, then they should be admired and only then should they be set up as examples to our children.

High moral character is what traditionally was considered wealth. Honor, generosity, courage and loyalty is still the gold standard in Peterstown. The things that were valued by past generations were not material. The richest people I know are those who made the world a better place for others. Wealth or poverty are only relative to the dollar amount that can be given. On all other accounts, everyone is equal.

Examples of great character can be found throughout the pages of this publication. Though subtle in their depiction, the achievements are monumental: the outpouring of generosity; the commitment to family; the love shared between husband and wife, parent and child; loyalty between employer and employee; duty to country and the commitment to the work of God. These should be the lessons that we teach our children.

Not for Nothing But...
today greatness is being measured by achievement and not by character.