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Building Character
We devote several pages in this branch to explain some of our philosophies about character. The Build Character section of our web site provides insight into our core belief that through encouragement and positive reinforcement, these character qualities will help to strengthen and grow the fabric of ourselves, our families and our community.
It is also where we feature information on the Character Quality of the Month (below). In addition to practicing and building
oneself, there are many ways for businesses, schools, faith organizations and local government to encourage and feature each Character Quality of the Month.
Click here
Deference
Character Quality of the Month
February 2012
Deference (vs. Rudeness)
Limiting my freedom so I do not offend the tastes of those around me.
Deference brings to
mind the waiter rule. “A
person, who is nice to
you but rude to the
waiter, or to others, is not
a nice person.” This was
penned by Raytheon CEO
Bill Swanson in a booklet of
33 short leadership rules he
called Swanson"s Unwritten
Rules of Management.
Many rude people can
justify their behavior
because they are not doing
anything “wrong” but
Deference challenges us to
do more “right”. We may
have every right to say
offensive things but it
does not mean it is the right
thing to do.
This month, practice
Deference by being
cognizant of those around
us and taking responsibility
for living together in
harmony.
To practice Deference, --
I will…
- Notice those
around me.
- Respect the
feelings of
others.
- Not use
offensive
language.
- Not play loud
music in public.
- Be careful how I
dress.
Rudeness is a weak man"s
imitation of strength.
~Eric Hoffer
“The secret, Joey, is
to know you're
somebody without
thinking you're
somebody."
~Dennis the Menace
FAITH MATERIALS: Please note that writings on Deference with a faith perspective are available on our website at
Faith Qualities/Deference.
Character qualities are courtesy of Character First!

The Character Qualities of the Month are adapted from the book Achieving True Success, published by the International Association of Character Cities.
All rights reserved. This material used with permission.
This material is copyright © 2012 by the Character Council of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, unless otherwise noted.
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