New look, poll and CF trait at ThreeRiversmi .org

FIVE REQUIREMENTS OF DETERMINATION

1. A strong grip – that will not let go
2. A strong direction – that keeps pushing ahead
3. A strong vision – that will not be discouraged
4. A strong focus – that refuses to be distracted
5. A strong mind – that creatively overcomes new obstacles

Determination is devoting your energies to a worthy pursuit, without letting go. Wisdom is getting an objective view of life to determine which goals are really right and which ones deserve more or less devotion. Determination is having the tenacity to push through obstacles that can be overcome and the patience to wait for those that cannot.

Determination is an exercise of patience as much as it is of tenacity. It is knowing when vigorous effort would accomplish nothing more than venting frustration. Instead determination will resolve to wait patiently for the right opportunity to try again; however, determination will never give up.

Unlike other experimental teaching programs, character education has been tested. It works. Nazi educators traded academics for character education--and created arrogant, tough, and obedient citizens-ready for unquestioning service to the state. As Hitler wrote in Mein Kampf:

"The folkish state must not adjust its entire educational work primarily to the inoculation of mere knowledge The training of mental abilities is only secondary. First place must be taken by the development of character, especially promotion of will-power and determination, combined with the training of joy in responsibility.

"A man with little scientific education but with a good, firm character is more valuable for the national community than a clever weakling. In the hard struggle of destiny, the man who knows least seldom succumbs."