Michael Josephson writes:

During my idealistic youth I attended an event in a large stadium. Everyone was given an unlit candle. Later, a speaker talked about the power of one person with an enlightened message. He also had a candle and a single match. He lit his candle and walked over to two people in the stands and with his candle he lit theirs and asked each of them to just light two other candles. Within a few minutes, everyone's candle was lit and the entire stadium glowed.

It's the most powerful visual metaphor I've ever experienced. First of all, thousands of candles were lit by a single tiny flame. What's more, while the flame was passed on and on, each flame continued to burn with undiminished light. The speed with which the light and warmth of that single flame spread to everyone in the stadium was literally awe-inspiring.

In today's dark world chilled by so many examples of human shortcomings, we need to abandon any sense of hopelessness or powerlessness and remember the power of the flame as both a source of light and warmth. Each one of us has the power to spread the light. It's another way to understand what Henry Adams meant when he said, "A teacher affects all eternity."

As you approach the holidays and a new year full of unlimited potential, resolve to be a candle. Let your good deeds and kind words brighten days and heal wounds, stand up for what's right and show others the way, and never waiver in your commitment to teach your children the power of virtue.

Six core ethical values form the foundation of the CHARACTER COUNTS! youth-ethics initiative:

TRUSTWORTHINESS
Be honest • Don't deceive, cheat or steal • Be reliable - do what you say you'll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation • Be loyal - stand by your family, friends and country

RESPECT
Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be tolerant of differences • Use good manners, not bad language • Be considerate of the feelings of others • Don't threaten, hit or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements

RESPONSIBILITY
Do what you are supposed to do • Persevere: keep on trying! • Always do your best • Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think before you act - consider the consequences • Be accountable for your choices

FAIRNESS
Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others • Don't take advantage of others • Don't blame others carelessly

CARING
Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need

CITIZENSHIP
Do your share to make your school and community better • Cooperate • Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed; vote • Be a good neighbor • Obey laws and rules • Respect authority • Protect the environment

LINK

Sent to parentadvocates.org by Karen Horwitz of NAPTA