“Character is like the foundation of a house—it is below the surface.” –Anonymous

But isn’t that so true. The real and true character is below the surface, it is unseen except in the mannerisms, attitude, and language of the beholder. It cannot be faked or put aside, but is constant. It becomes a part of a person’s being.

The dictionary describes Character as: “the aggregate of features and traits that form the apparent individual nature of some person or thing.” (Websters Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary, page 247).

George Washington learned to take great care of his character at a very young age when he was taught the “Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior In Company and Conversation.” One of those maxims regarding character is most interesting, and would be good for all to learn at an early age:

“Associate yourself with Men of good Quality if you Esteem your own Reptation; for ‘tis better to be alone than in Bad Company.” (Rule 56).

I’m sure you can understand what a great blessing this was for George to learn in his youth. He forbade cursing and swearing in his Revolutionary War troops. He choose wise leaders in the battles, men who could be relied on (with perhaps the exception of Aaron Burr.)

Those he became closest to were men of great standing and wisdom. One of his closest friends was also a man of great character—James Madison.