"CREATING A NEW PATH FORWARD"

I don’t believe any sane person would disagree that the last few weeks have revealed sad, dark days in our country’s history. Yet I would argue that they are equally sad and dark days in humanity’s history.

Specifically, our country was shaken by the senseless killing of Charlie Kirk. While a national tragedy, it isn’t just an American issue but a human one. Is evil—and individual malicious discord—on the rise? You could argue that it is. There is plenty of evidence. Yet, I believe there is still a path forward, and part of that path involves developing or strengthening our personal spirit and character.

I’ve reflected on six essential traits that can make a meaningful difference in forging that path. (I could have chosen ten, but six seemed most urgent.) And let me add this: change starts with us—individually. It doesn’t depend on what someone else may or may not be doing. If you believe in something that has the power to create a positive path forward, then begin it. Look at Charlie Kirk: at age eighteen, he started Turning Point on his own, and his efforts forged a new path. Focus on your own development and let others focus on theirs.

In my opinion, these six spirits or character traits are especially worth cultivating:

1. Giver

A Giver is selfless with time, talent, care, and even money. It’s about recognizing a need and stepping in to meet it.

2. Inspirer

An Inspirer gives people reasons to be hopeful.

3. Helper

A Helper keeps their radar tuned for opportunities to serve—not only in obvious ways but also through random acts of kindness.

4. Encourager

An Encourager looks for ways, big or small, to lift another person’s spirit. Even the smallest evidence is enough to offer cheer and support.

5. Critical Thinker

A Critical Thinker isn’t afraid to ask hard questions or challenge the status quo with respect and humility. They don’t blindly follow the crowd, which is often uninformed or biased. Instead, they think independently and arrive at their own conclusions.

6. Triple A

This trait is especially needed in our times:

1. Acknowledge that differences in ideas and opinions exist.

   
   

2. Accept that others may hold beliefs different from your own.

   
   

3. Agree to disagree when necessary—and, when appropriate, engage in respectful dialogue or debate.

I trust this helps someone today.