by Kathy Ruff
(Laura) Jane Addams, winner of the 1931 Nobel Peace Prize winner for pioneering work in social justice and peace, was quoted as saying:
“America’s future will be determined by the home and the school. The child becomes largely what he is taught; hence we must watch what we teach, and how we live.”
Jane Addams lived her beliefs and challenged others to do the same.
So many people today are so wrapped up in making a living, raising children and all the realities of everyday life that they make no time to even consider what their beliefs are. Take a moment to consider — what are your beliefs? How do you portray those beliefs by the life you live?
Like Abraham Lincoln, I believe all men (and women) are created equally. I try to live that belief every day by treating others with respect, honesty and integrity. I believe each one of us embodies the spirit of God within us, and that fact alone helps me to be tolerant, loving and understanding. No, I’m not always successful at being the best me, but I try to live life acting on my beliefs.
If you looked back on your life so far, what lessons would your life have portrayed to others? How can you begin to live as the right kind of example for your children, the neighbors, the world?
“The good we secure for ourselves is precarious and uncertain until it is secured for all of us and incorporated into our common life.” (Jane Addams)
