Virtues for the 2016-2017 School Year

Please note: The Virtue of the Week begins on Saturday/Sunday to accommodate the faith -based community, some of which meets on Saturdays and some on Sundays. The underlined Virtue is the theme for the month.

July 30/31: Assertiveness

Being assertive means being positive and confident.  You are aware that you are a worthy person with your own special gifts.  You think for yourself and express your own ideas.  You know what you stand for and what you won't stand for.  You expect respect.

You are practicing assertiveness when you ...

Share your own ideas and feelingsTactfully tell others what you really thinkDon't allow others to lead you into troubleAvoid being aggressive or passiveAsk for what you want and needExpect respect at all times

Affirmation: I am assertive. I freely express my own ideas. I think for myself and do what I feel is right. I am my own leader.

August 6/7: Modesty

Modesty is having self-respect.  When you value yourself with quiet pride, you accept praise with humility and gratitude.  Modesty is being comfortable with yourself and setting healthy boundaries about your body and privacy.

You are practicing modesty when you ...

*   Are comfortable being who you are*   Respect yourself*   Do not permit anyone to abuse your body*   Set boundaries about your right to privacy*   Accept praise with humility and gratitude*   Share your victories without boasting

Affirmation:

 I am modest.  I have no need to brag.  I dress in a way that shows respect for myself and others.I protect myself from disrespectful attention.

13/14: Cleanliness

Cleanliness means washing often, keeping your body clean and wearing clean clothes.  It is putting into your body and your mind only the things that keep you healthy.  It is staying free from harmful drugs. It is cleaning up mistakes and making a fresh start.

You are practicing cleanliness when you ...

*   Keep your body fresh and clean*   Put things away after you use them*   Help keep your home neat and clean

*   Put only healthful things into your body*   Use clean language*   Clean up your mistakes

Affirmation:

I keep my mind and body healthy and clean.I put my things and life in order.  I am willing to clean up my mistakes.

20/21: Detachment

Detachment is experiencing your feelings without allowing your feelings to control you.  Instead of just reacting, with detachment you are free to choose how you will act.  You use thinking and feeling together, so you can make smart choices.

You are practicing detachment when you ...

*   Don't get swept away by strong feelings*   Take time out before doing something you will regret*   Step back and look at your feelings*   Act instead of react*   Let go of things you cannot control*   Choose to do what is right

Affirmation:I am detached.  I am aware of my feelings and choose my actions with detachment.  I do what is right for me. I choose to be my best self no matter what happens.

27/28: Caring (Theme for the month of September)Caring is giving love and attention to people and things that matter to you. When you care about people, you help them.  You do a careful job, giving your very best effort.  You treat people and things gently and respectfully.  Caring makes the world a safer place.

You are practicing caring when you...   *  Show care for others, yourself and the earth *  Look at people and listen closely *  Handle things carefully *  Are gentle with people and things placed in your care   *  Treat your body with respect *  Work with enthusiasm and excellence   Affirmation:   I care for others and myself. I pay loving attention.I give my best to every job. 

September 3/4: Love

Love is a special feeling that fills your heart.  You show love in a smile, a kind word, a thoughtful act or a hug.  Love is treating people and things with care and kindness because they mean so much to you.  Love is contagious.  It keeps spending.

You are practicing love when you ...

     *  Treat others as you want them to treat you     *   Say kind words and loving things

     *   Share your things and yourself     *   Love people just as they are     *   Take good care of the things you love     *   Do what you love and love what you do

Affirmation:I am a loving person. I show my love with thoughtful acts, kind words and affection. I treat others the way I want to be treated.

10/11: Kindness

Kindness is showing you care, doing some good to make life better for others.  Be thoughtful about people's needs.  Show love and compassion to someone who is sad or needs your help.  When you are tempted to be cruel, to criticize or tease, decide to be kind instead.

You are practicing kindness when you ...

*   Give tender attention to those who need help*   Do thoughtful things to give others happiness*   Practice habits that help the environment*   Resist the temptation to be cruel*   Accept people who are different

Affirmation:I am kind.  I show compassion to others. I have the courage to show I care.

17/18: Compassion

Compassion is understanding and caring when someone is hurt or troubled, even if you don't know them.  It is wanting to help, even if all you can do is listen and say kind words.  You forgive mistakes.  You are a friend when someone needs a friend.

You are practicing compassion when you...

*  Notice when someone is hurt or needs a friend*  Imagine how they must be feeling*  Take time to show that you care*  Ask how they are and listen patiently*  Forgive others when they make a mistake*  Are helpful to a person or animal in need

Affirmation:I have compassion. I notice when someone is hurt or needs my help. I take the time to show that I care.

24/25: Gentleness

Gentleness is acting and speaking in a way which is considerate and kind to others.  Gentleness is moving wisely, touching softly, holding carefully, speaking quietly and thinking kindly.

You are practicing gentleness when you...

*  Make it safe for animals and people to be around you*  Touch carefully*  Speak with a soft voice*  Take time out when you don't feel gentle*  Think gentle thoughts that make you smile inside

Affirmation:

I am gentle.  I think, speak and act with gentleness.  I show care for people and for everything that I touch.

October 1/2: Responsibility

Being responsible means others can trust you to do things with excellence.  You accept accountability for your actions.  When you make a mistake, you offer amends instead of excuses. Responsibility is the ability to respond ably and to make smart choices.

You are practicing responsibility when you ...

*   Take your agreements seriously*   Respond ably by doing things to the best of your ability*   Are willing to do your part*   Admit mistakes without making excuses*   Are ready and willing to clear up misunderstandings*   Give your best to whatever you do

Affirmation:   I am responsible.  I give my best to all that I do and keep my agreements.  I learn from my mistakes.  I am willing to make amends.

8/9: Self-Discipline

Self-discipline means self-control. It is doing what you really want to do, rather than being tossed around by your feelings like a leaf in the wind.  You act instead of react.  You get things done in an orderly and efficient way.  With self-discipline, you take charge of yourself.

You are practicing self-discipline when you...

*   Use detachment so your emotions won't control you*   Speak and act calmly when you are hurt or angry*   Create routines that bring peace and order to your day*   Practice moderation*   Do what is expected without anyone watching over you*   Do things on time

Affirmation:I have self-discipline.  I use my time well and get things done.  I choose my actions with detachment.

15/16: Reliability

Reliability means that others can depend on you.  You keep your commitments and give your best to every job.  You are responsible.  You don't forget, and you don't need to be reminded.  Other people can relax knowing things are in your reliable hands.

You are practicing reliability when you ...

*   Make promises you can keep*   Really care about doing what you promise*   Return things you borrow*   Plan ahead*   Do your best and finish on time*   Find another way if obstacles occur

Affirmation:

I am reliable.  I keep my promises.  Others can depend on me.  Nothing can stop me from giving my best.

22/23: Excellence

Excellence is doing your best, giving careful attention to every task and every relationship.  Excellence is effort guided by a noble purpose.  It is a desire for perfection.  The perfection of a seed comes in the fruit.  When you practice excellence, you bring your gifts to fruition.  Excellence is the key to success.

You are practicing excellence when you...

*  Give your best to whatever you do*  Give your best to relationships*  Set noble and realistic goals*  Remember to plan and practice*  Don't try to do everything*  Develop your special gifts

Affirmation:I give my best to the work I do.  I give my best to others.  I dare to set noble goals.  I choose excellence in all things.

29/30: Cooperation

Cooperation is working together and sharing the load.  When we cooperate, we join with others to do things that cannot be done alone.  We are willing to follow the rules which keep everyone safe and happy.  Together we can accomplish great things.

You are practicing cooperation when you...

*   Work well with others*   Offer your help and ideas freely*   Disagree peacefully and respectfully*   Follow the rules*   Ask for help when you need it*   Help keep a safe, happy environment

Affirmation:I am cooperative. I respect the rules. I work and play well with others.  I keep myself and others safe.

November

5/6: Unity

Unity helps us work and live together peacefully.  We feel connected with each other and all living things.  We value the specialness of each person as a gift, not as a reason to fight or be scared.  With unity we accomplish more together than any one of us could do alone.

You are practicing unity when you...

*   Treat all people as members of one human family*   See the gifts in differences*   Refuse to join in when others express prejudice*   Solve conflict through listening and finding solutions*   Care for the earth and all living things*   Act like a peacemaker wherever you go

Affirmation:

I practice unity with others.  The joy of one is the joy of all.  The hurt of one is the hurt of all.  The honor of one is the honor of all.

12/13: Thankfulness

Thankfulness is being grateful for what we have.  It is an attitude of gratitude for learning, loving and being.  Appreciate the little things that happen around you and within you every day.  Think positively.  Thankfulness brings contentment.

You are practicing thankfulness when you...

*   Are thankful for the gifts of life*   Appreciate your own abilities instead of envying others*   See the difficulties of life as learning opportunities*   Enjoy your sense of wonder about the beauty in the world*   Are willing to receive what others want to give*   Count your blessings every day

Affirmation:I am thankful for the many gifts within me and around me today. I appreciate my life. I look for the lessons.  I expect the best.

19/20: Respect

We show respect by speaking and acting with courtesy.  We treat others with dignity and honor the rules of family, school and nation. Respect yourself, and others will respect you.

You are practicing respect when you...

*   Speak courteously to everyone*   Take special care of the belongings of others*   Are receptive to the wisdom of elders*   Honor the rules of your family, school and nation*   Expect respect for your body and your rights*   Treat others with dignity

Affirmation:I am respectful. I honor the wisdom of elders. I treat others and myself as we deserve to be treated.

26/27: Understanding (Theme for the month of December)

Understanding is using your mind to think clearly, paying attention to see the meaning of things.  An understanding mind gives you insights and wonderful ideas.  An understanding heart gives you empathy and compassion for others.  Understanding is the power to think and learn and also to care.

You are practicing understanding when you ...

*   Concentrate and pay close attention*   Reflect on the meaning of things*   See the whole picture*   Resist distractions*   Put yourself in other people's shoes*   Forgive others and yourself when you make mistakes

Affirmation:I have an understanding mind.  I see truth about things.  I have an understanding heart.  I have empathy for other people's feelings.

December 3/4: Tolerance

Being tolerant is accepting differences.  You don't expect others to think, look, speak or act just like you.  You are free of prejudice, knowing that all people have feelings, needs, hopes and dreams.  Tolerance is also accepting things you wish were different with patience and flexibility.

You are practicing tolerance when you...

*   Build unity with others who are different from you*   Are free of prejudice*   Make others feel included by reaching out in friendliness*   Don't complain about things that cannot be changed*   Change yourself instead of trying to change others*   Accept people the way they are, faults and all

Affirmation:I am tolerant. I appreciate differences.  I overlook people's faults.  I accept with good grace the things I cannot change.

10/11: Patience

Patience is quiet hope and trust that things will turn out right.  You wait without complaining.  You are tolerant and accepting of difficulties and mistakes.  You picture the end in the beginning and persevere to meet your goals.  Patience is a commitment to the future.

You are practicing patience when you ...

*   Calmly tolerate a delay or confusion*   Are willing to wait for things you want*   Set goals and persevere until they are met*   Do something now that will help you in the future*   Accept things you cannot change with humor and grace*   Are tolerant when mistakes are made

Affirmation:  I am patient.  I am gentle with others and myself when we make mistakes.  I wait calmly. I trust that things will turn out right.

17/18: Joyfulness

Joyfulness is an inner sense of peace and happiness. You appreciate the gifts each day brings.  Without joyfulness, when the fun stops, our happiness stops.  Joy can carry us through the hard times even when we are feeling sad.  Joy gives us wings.

You are practicing joyfulness when you...

*   Look inside for happiness*   Enjoy whatever you are doing*   Feel good about doing what is right*   Find creative ways to enjoy your time*   Have a good sense of humor*   Feel an inner peace even when things are tough

Affirmation:I am thankful for the joy I feel inside.  I enjoy my work and my play. I appreciate the gifts this day holds for me.

24/25: Honor

Honor is living by the virtues, showing great respect for yourself, other people, and the rules you live by.  When you are honorable, you keep your word.  You do the right thing regardless of what others are doing.  Honor is a path of integrity.

You are practicing honor when you ...

*   Guide your life by your virtues*   Can be trusted to keep your promises*   Avoid doing things that make you feel ashamed*   Respect the rules you want to live by*   Do what you believe is right no matter what*   Set a good example for others

Affirmation:  I am honorable.  I keep my agreements and treat others with respect.  I care about doing the right thing.

January

31/1: Perseverance

Perseverance is being steadfast and persistent. You commit to your goals and overcome obstacles, no matter how long it takes.  When you persevere, you don't give up...you keep going.  Like a strong ship in a storm, you don't become battered or blown off course.  You just ride the waves.

You are practicing perseverance when you...

*   Choose your commitments wisely*   Set goals and stick with them until completed*   Pace yourself, and take one step at a time*   Don't let doubts or tests blow you off course

Affirmation:      I have perseverance.  I finish what I start. I keep steady in what I choose to do.  I am loyal and committed.

7/8: Determination

You focus your energy and efforts on a task and stick with it until it is finished.  Determination is using your willpower to do something when it isn't easy.  You are determined to meet your goals even when it is hard or you are being tested.  With determination we make our dreams come true.

You are practicing determination when you...*   Believe that what you are doing is important*   Set goals for yourself*   Stay focused without being distracted*   Keep going even if it gets difficult*   Ask for help when you need it*   Finish what you started

Affirmation:I am determined.  I set goals and keep going until I achieve them.  I get things done.  I stay focused on my purpose.

14/15: Diligence

Diligence is working hard and doing your absolute best.  You take special care by doing things step by

step.  Diligence helps you to get things done with excellence and enthusiasm.  Diligence leads to success.

You are practicing diligence when you...* Pay careful attention to what you are doing* Do things step by step* Practice to the point of excellence* Give your absolute best to whatever you do* Work hard* Don't give up

Affirmation:I am diligent.  I work hard.  I work carefully.  I can be trusted to do a good job.

21/22: Purposefulness

Being purposeful is having a clear focus.  Begin with a vision for what you want to accomplish, and concentrate on your goal.  Do one thing at a time, without scattering your energies.  Some people let things happen; when you are purposeful, you make things happen.

You are practicing purposefulness when you...*   Have a clear vision of what you want to     accomplish*   Know why you are doing it*   Focus on the goal*   Get back on purpose if you get scattered     or distracted*   Do things one at a time and finish what     you start*   Persevere until you get the right results

Affirmation: I am purposeful.  I am clear about what I am doing and why.  I stay focused on my goals. I know I can accomplish great things

28/29: Justice

Practicing justice is being fair. It is solving problems so everyone wins.You don't prejudge. You see people as individuals. You don't accept it when some-one acts like a bully, cheats or lies. Being a champion for justice takes courage. Sometimes when you stand for justice, you stand alone.

You are practicing justice when you ...

* Treat everyone fairly* Think for yourself and refuse to prejudge* Avoid gossip and backbiting* Own your mistakes and fix them* Protect people's rights, including your own* Solve problems so everyone wins

Affirmation:I act with justice. I stand up for the rights of others and myself. I have no need to pretend or defend. I choose to make amends.

February

4/5: Idealism

When you have ideals, you really care about what is right and meaningful in life.  You follow your beliefs.  You don't just accept things the way they are.  You make a difference.  Idealists dare to have big dreams and then act as if they are possible.

You are practicing idealism when you...

* Really care about what you value in life* Dare to have big dreams* Have a vision of what is possible* Have a plan to make your ideals real* Take action to make your dreams come true* Do something to make a difference in the world

Affirmation:I live by my ideals. I believe in my dreams. I have faith that anything is possible.

11/12: Peacefulness

Peacefulness is being calm inside.  Take time for daily reflection and gratitude.  Solve conflicts so everyone wins.  Be a peacemaker.  Peace is giving up the love of power for the power of love.  Peace in the world begins with peace in your heart.

You are practicing peacefulness when you...

      * Create inner peace with daily reflection or prayer      * Use peaceful language even when you are angry      * Speak gently and respectfully      * Avoid harming anyone      * Appreciate differences      * Find peaceful solutions to every problem

Affirmation:

 I am peaceful. I use peaceful words and find fair solutions when differences arise.  I find my inner peace and let it carry me gently through the day.

18/19: Forgiveness

Being forgiving is giving someone another chance after they have done something wrong.  Everyone makes mistakes.  Instead of revenge, make amends.  Forgive yourself too.  Instead of feeling hopeless after a mistake, decide to act differently, and have faith that you can change.

You are practicing forgiveness when you ...

*   Remember that everyone makes mistakes*   Share your feelings without taking revenge*   Stop giving uncaring people the chance to hurt you*   Accept people without judgment or criticism*   Take responsibility for your own mistakes*   Make amends instead of punishing yourself with guilt

Affirmation:

I am forgiving of others and myself.  I am willing to give and receive amends.  I learn from my mistakes.  I have the power to keep changing for the better.

25/26: Courtesy (Theme for the month of March)

Courtesy is being polite and having good manners.  When you speak and act courteously, you give others a feeling of being valued and respected.  Greet people pleasantly.  Bring courtesy home.  Your family needs it most of all.  Courtesy helps life go smoothly.

 You are practicing courtesy when you ...*   Remember your manners*   Treat elders, parents, teachers, and children politely*   Think about how your actions affect others*   Eat, speak and move graciously*   Make requests instead of demands*   Greet people with a smile

Affirmation:

  I am courteous. I speak and act in a mannerly way. I show others that I value and respect them.

March

4/5: Friendliness

Friendliness is being a friend, through good times and bad.  You take an interest in other people and make them feel welcome.  You share your belongings, your time, and yourself.  Friendliness is the best cure for loneliness.

You are practicing friendliness when you ...

*   Like yourself and know you have a lot to offer*   Smile and greet people courteously*   Get to know people and let them get to know you*   Show caring when a friend needs you*   Are friendly to people who look and act differently*   Make someone new feel welcome

 Affirmation:

  I am friendly.  I show an interest in others by being warm and courteous.  I am a loyal friend.  My friendship is a worthy gift.

11/12: Consideration

Consideration is being thoughtful of other people and their feelings.  You consider how your actions affect them.  You pay careful attention to what others like and don't like, and do things that give them happiness.

You are practicing consideration when you ...* Respect other people's needs and feelings* Consider others' needs as important as your own* Stop and think how your actions will affect people* Put yourself in other people's shoes* Give tender attention* Think of little things to bring others happiness

Affirmation:

I am considerate of others. I stop and think about how my actions may affect them. I do thoughtful things for people.

18/19: Tact

Tact is telling the truth kindly, considerate of how your words affect others' feelings.  Think before you speak, knowing what is better left unsaid.  When you are tactful, others find it easier to hear what you have to say.  Tact builds bridges.

You are practicing tact when you ...*   Are careful about the feelings of others*   Stop yourself from teasing or embarrassing others*   Tell the truth kindly and gently*   Decide if it is better to tell the truth or keep silent*   Keep unpleasant or critical thoughts to yourself*   Treat people who are different as you would treat anyone

Affirmation:

I am tactful.  I think before I speak.  I am diplomatic even when I feel strongly.  I tell the truth kindly and gently.

25/26: Honesty

Honesty is being truthful and sincere.  It is important because it builds trust.  When people are honest, they can be relied on not to lie, cheat, or steal.  Being honest means that you accept yourself as who you are.  When you are open and trustworthy, others can believe in you.

You are practicing honesty when you* Say what you mean and mean what you say* Make promises you can keep* Tell the truth tactfully* Admit your mistakes* Refuse to lie, cheat or steal* Are true to yourself and do what you know is right

Affirmation:I am honest.  I can be trusted to keep my word.  I have no need to impress others.  I accept myself.  I tell the truth, kindly and tactfully.

April 1/2: Trust

Trust is having faith in someone or something.  It is a positive attitude about life.  You are confident that the right thing will happen without trying to control it or make it happen.  Even when difficult things happen, trust helps us to find the gift or lesson in it.

You are practicing trust when you ...*   Believe there is some good in everything that happens.*   Look for the lessons in painful experiences.*   Let trust take away your worries.*   Know that your best is good enough.*   Trust others unless you have good reasons not to.*   Don't nag, worry, or try to take control.

Affirmation:

I am trusting.  I have no need to control others.  I release fear and worry. I feel at peace and know I am not alone.

8/9: Trustworthiness

Trustworthiness is being worthy of trust.  People can count on you to do your best, to keep your word,

and to follow through on your commitments.  You do what you say you will do.  Trustworthiness is a key to success in anything you do.

You are practicing trustworthiness when you ...* Think before you make a promise to be sure you can do it* Take responsibility for remembering your commitments* Keep your promises even when they become hard to do* Abide by the rules even when no one is watching* Let nothing stop you from keeping your word* Do your best and finish what you start

Affirmation:

I am trustworthy.  I keep my word.  I am worthy of the trust others place in me.

15/16: Truthfulness

Truthfulness is being honest in your words and actions.  You don't tell lies even to defend yourself.  Don't listen to gossip or prejudice.  See the truth for yourself.  Don't try to be more that you are to impress others.  Be yourself, your true self.

You are practicing truthfulness when you...* Speak only the truth* Don't let others tell you what to think* Investigate the truth for yourself* Can tell the difference between fact and fantasy* Admit when you have made a mistake* Don't exaggerate or deceive to

Affirmation:

I am truthful. I speak the truth.  I see the truth with my own eyes.  I am content to be my true self.

22/23: Integrity

Integrity is living by your highest values.  It is being honest and sincere.  Integrity helps you listen to your conscience, to do the right thing and to tell the truth.  You act with integrity when your words and actions match.  Integrity gives you self-respect and a peaceful heart.

You are practicing integrity when you...

* Think about what virtues matter to you* Stand up for what you believe in* Do the right thing, even when it is hard* Willingly clean up your mistakes* Think for yourself and avoid temptation

Affirmation:

I have integrity.  I stand up for what is right.  I mean what I say and say what I mean.

29/30: Commitment

Commitment is caring deeply about something or someone.  It is deciding carefully what you want to do, then giving 100%, holding nothing back.  You give your all to friendship, a task, or something you believe in.  You finish what you start.  You keep your promises.

You are practicing commitment when you...

Think before you make a promise Keep every agreement you make Make decisions confidently Go the extra mile Give 100% to everything you do Are faithful to people you care about

Affirmation:I commit to my decisions. I keep my agreements. I give my all. I am a faithful friend.

May

6/7: Courage

Courage is bravery in the face of fear.  You do the right thing even when it is hard or scary.  When you are courageous, you don't give up.  You try new things.  You admit your mistakes.  Courage is the strength in your heart.

You are practicing courage when you...

Stay strong even when you are afraid Are willing to try new things Admit mistakes and learn from them Make amends when you do something wrong Do what is right for you even when it is hard Ask for help when you need it

Affirmation:

 I have courage. I listen to my heart. I face my fears and am willing to try new things.  I have the courage to do the right thing.

13/14: Confidence

Confidence is having faith in someone.  Self-confidence is trusting that you have what it takes to handle whatever happens.  You feel sure of yourself and enjoy trying new things, without letting doubts or fears hold you back.  When you have confidence in others, you rely on them.

You are practicing confidence when you ...

Know you are worthwhile and feel sure of yourself Don't let fear, doubt or worry stop you Discover your talents and try new things Learn from your mistakes Think positively Trust that all things work together for good

Affirmation:I am confident. I appreciate my gifts and give my best.  I enjoy trying new things.  I welcome new possibilities.

20/21: Loyalty

Loyalty is staying true to someone.  It is standing up for something you believe in without wavering.  It is being faithful to your family, country, school, friends or ideals when the going gets tough as well as when things are good.  With loyalty, you build relationships that last forever.

You are practicing loyalty when you...

Stand up for people and ideas you believe in Choose your friends wisely Are a faithful friend through good times and bad Don't allow loyalty to lead you into trouble Don't let others come between you and your friends Are loyal to yourself

Affirmation:I am loyal to the people and ideas I care about. I stand by my friends and loved ones.  I keep my commitments.

27/28: Helpfulness

Helpfulness is being of service to others, doing thoughtful things that make a difference in their lives.  Offer your help without waiting to be asked.  Ask for help when you need it.  When we help each other, we get more done.  We make our lives easier.

You are practicing helpfulness when you ...

Notice when someone needs help Do a service without being asked Give people what they need, not always what they want Listen to someone who needs to talk Care for your own needs Ask for help when you need it

Affirmation:I am helpful.  I look for ways to be of service.  I care for others and myself.  I look for helpful ways to make a difference.

June 3/4: Service

Service is giving to others, making a difference in their lives.  You consider their needs as important as your own.  Be helpful without waiting to be asked.  Do perform every job with excellence?  When you act with a spirit of service, you can change the world.

You are practicing service when you ...

Want to make a difference in the world Look for opportunities to be of service to others Do thoughtful things to help your family and friends Work with enthusiasm Don't wait to be asked when something needs doing Do you part to care for the earth:  recycle, reduce, re-use

Affirmation:I am a person of service. I have compassion for those who need help. I do my part to make a better world.

10/11: Generosity

Generosity is giving and sharing.  You share freely, not with the idea of receiving something in return.  You find ways to give others happiness, and give just for the joy of giving.  Generosity is one of the best ways to show love and friendship.

You are practicing generosity when you ...

Are thoughtful of the needs of others Notice when someone needs help Give freely without expectation of reward Give fully without holding back Are willing to make sacrifices for others Use wisdom about sharing treasured belongings

 Affirmation: I am generous. I look for opportunities to give and to share.  I take time to be thoughtful. I give freely, fully, and joyfully.

17/18: Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm is being cheerful, happy and full of spirit.  It is doing something wholeheartedly and eagerly.  When you are enthusiastic, you have a positive attitude.  Enthusiasm is being inspired.

You are practicing enthusiasm when you ...

Smile, laugh and enjoy what you do Look forward to something eagerly Have a positive attitude Do things wholeheartedly Look on the bright side Are inspired by the wonders of life

Affirmation:I am full of enthusiasm. I give 100% to whatever I do.  I use my imagination.  I am open to the wonders in store for me today.

24/25: Creativity

Creativity is the power of imagination.  It is discovering your own special talents.  Dare to see things in new ways to solve problems.  With your creativity, you can bring something new into the world.

You are practicing creativity when you...

Discover your gifts Use knowledge and training to develop them Think of new ways to make things work better Use your imagination Take time for dreaming Do things in your own creative way

Affirmation:I am creative.  I have special gifts and use discipline to develop them.  I am open to inspiration.  I am happy to be myself.

July 1/2: Humility

Being humble is considering others as important as yourself. You are thoughtful of their needs and willing to be of service.  You don't expect others or yourself to be perfect.  You learn from your mistakes.  When you do great things, humility reminds you to be thankful instead of boastful.

You are practicing humility when you ...

Consider the needs of others as important as your own Apologize and make amends when you hurt others Learn from your mistakes and change for the better Ask for help when you need it Are doing your best just to do it, not to impress anyone Are grateful instead of boastful

Affirmation:

I am humble.  I do not judge others or myself.  I value my ability to keep growing and learning.

8/9: Flexibility

Flexibility is being open to change.  You consider others' ideas and feelings and don't insist on your own way.  Flexibility gives you creative new ways to get things done.  You get rid of bad habits and learn new ones.  Flexibility helps you to keep changing for the better.

You are practicing flexibility when you ...

Learn from your mistakes Are willing to change bad habits Try imaginative new ways to do things Are open to the ideas and feelings of others Can adjust when something unexpected happens Go with the flow.  Trust the unexpected.

Affirmation:

I am flexible.  I keep changing for the better. I use my creativity. I welcome surprises.

15/16: Orderliness

Orderliness is being neat and living with a sense of harmony.  You are organized and know where things are when you need them.  Solve problems step by step instead of going in circles.  Order around you creates order inside you.  Orderliness gives you peace of mind.

You are practicing orderliness when you ...

Have a place to put each of your things Put your things away in the same place every time Have a plan before you begin any job Create harmonious space that feels peaceful Appreciate the beauty and order of nature

Affirmation:

 I live this day with order.  I do things step by step.  I create beauty and harmony in my space and in my life.

22/23: Moderation

 Moderation is creating a healthy balance in your life between work and play, rest and exercise.  You don't overdo or get swept away by the things you like.  You use your self-discipline to take charge of your life and your time.

You are practicing moderation when you ...

Get enough of what you need, no more, no less Use self-discipline to stop yourself from over doing things Take charge of your health Balance work and play in your life Know your own limits and set boundaries for yourself Are content with enough

 Affirmation:

 I am moderate.  I am thankful and content to get what I need.  I use my time and energy wisely.  My life is balanced.