Dr. Richard Clark
The “Character Counts” organization has identified 10 traits that are important to everyone. I am proud to say that Tennessee 4-H is instilling these in our outstanding young people. I hope each of us will reflect on how these are being played out in our own lives and modeled to our members.
- Be Honest. Tell the truth; be sincere; don’t mislead or withhold key infor-mation in relationships of trust; don’t steal.
- Demonstrate integrity. Stand up for your beliefs about right and wrong; be your best self; resist social pressure to do wrong.
- Keep promises. Keep your word and honor your commitments; pay your debts and return what you borrow.
- Be loyal. Stand by family, friends, employers, community and country; don’t talk about people behind their backs.
- Be responsible. Think before you act; consider consequences; be account-able and “take your medicine.”
- Pursue excellence. Do your best with what you have; don’t quit easily.
- Be kind and caring. Show you care through generosity and compassion; don’t be selfish or mean.
- Treat all people with respect. Be courteous and polite; judge all people on their merits; be tolerant, appreciative and accepting of individual differences.
- Be fair. Treat all people fairly; be open-minded; listen to others and try to understand what they are saying and feeling.
- Be a good citizen. Obey the law and respect authority; vote, volunteer your efforts; protect the environment.
