Admired, envied, feared, trusted?

WHICH of the above would you want others to feel about you?

A judge-friend of mine sent me this text: “Men of genius are admired; men of wealth are envied; men of power are feared; but only men of character are trusted!”

Immediately, I saved it, to be able to digest it during my quiet moments.

I believe most people would like to be admired for genius, for good or youthful looks, for speed, for strength, for good intentions, and good deeds. It is very human to feel good when acknowledged and appreciated. Of course, seeking acknowledgment and praise would be another story.

To intentionally cause others to be envious by showing off and being pretentious would not be Christian. Enjoying the fruits of one’s labor, or material success, in a “simple” and not “showy” manner, would give others less reason or cause to sin; for envy is a sin.

To be feared would get things done your way quickly, but so does respect! People usually consider it a privilege to help and serve people worthy of respect.

My teacher in college once said, if you can find a person worthy of trust, know that you have found a “treasure”. Brilliant men and men of genius abound, but trustworthy people are rare!

My Dearest Children,

It is good to be admired; better to be respected; and best to be respected and trusted.

Strive to be respected, rather than feared! Strive to be respected, rather than liked! To be respected and liked, would of course, be better!

It takes integrity, firm convictions, and right actions that jibe with strong values and noble principles, to build character.

It is when we are tested and faced with situations that cause us to act and display an opposite trait that we slowly build our character, when we act rightly.

One action or deed does not make one great! It is the consistent repetition of good actions and reliability of responses that make good habits; good habits form and build good character.

2 Bible phrases came to mind as I pondered on the question first raised:

Prov. 27:21 “the crucible for silver, and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives” - Stay humble and simple, my dearest children!

Prov. 22:1 “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.” - Your wealth is in your name and reputation. Safeguard it!