Fulfilling what I consented to do, even if it means unexpected sacrifice.
The character quality of dependability is foundational to achieving independence. It is by proving oneself trustworthy, dependable and capable to fulfill ones duty that a person gains (and deserves) greater independence. Dependability is accepting full responsibility for a goal, seeing it through to fulfillment, and then standing behind the result.
In the studio of Michelangelo, a guest asked what the great sculptor had accomplished that day. Michelangelo pointed to one of his statues and replied, I have retouched this part, polished that, softened this feature, brought out that muscle, given some expression to this lip, and more energy to that limb. But these are trifles, replied the visitor, startled that the renowned artist would waste a day on details most people would never notice. It may be so, Michelangelo answered with a slow nod, but recollect that trifles make perfection, and perfection is no trifle.
Dependability is doing a job well. It is taking on a task and devoting a personal commitment to complete it, not just to minimum expectations, but to the best of ones ability. It is minding the details and doing the job right.
American publisher George W. Childs summed up the spirit of dependability when he said, I did not do merely what was required of me, I did all that I could. In a world where not only difficulties and obstacles hinder accomplishments, but treachery and disloyalty as well, dependability is a quality to be highly valued. Dependability is the quality of one who can be counted on to do his or her duty, whatever the obstacle or distraction, without fail.
At home, you might talk to your children about the duties of a firefighter, a police officer, a doctor, a mail carrier, and an electric company line worker. While discussing each of these, discuss first the duties they fulfill. Then, consider what would happen if they slacked off or neglected their responsibilities. How many people are depending on them to fulfill their commitments? Talk about the importance of doing ones duties because others often unseen are depending on their being done.
Brought to you by the Four Corners Character Council. Character First definitions and information used by permission. www.characterfirst.com.
