October 2011 – Grace
Definition
A disposition to be generous or helpful; goodwill.
Quotes
Beauty without grace is the hook without the bait. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Gracefulness has been defined to be the outward expression of the inward harmony of the soul ~William Hazlitt
Grace is to the body, what good manners are to the mind ~François de la Rochefoucauld
Happy is your Grace that can translate the stubbornness of fortune into so quiet and so sweet a style ~ William Shakespeare
Teach Grace
How to be a Gracious Person:
- Always help others feel comfortable—even if you are uncomfortable.
- Be friendly, even if you feel shy. Give a firm handshake, and look people in the eye when you are talking to them (when listening to them, too!)
- Use good manners.
- Be a servant to others.
- Gracious people take criticism graciously, even when the criticism is unjust. It’s normal to feel an immediate need to defend ourselves, especially if our reputation is at stake…but it is best to keep quiet and not let the heat of the moment overcome us.
- Don’t speak when you are angry. Avoid arguments and disagreements.
- Accept constructive criticism with poise.
Remember that:
- A gracious person would never set about to hurt another person purposely, nor seek revenge for wrongs done (whether real or perceived.)
- A gracious person, when wronged, will seek a peaceable resolution privately. A gracious person doesn’t gossip, grumble about others, or make private disagreements public.
- Graciousness, or a lack thereof, reveals your true heart and character.
Every day we are given chances to practice graciousness: When we are driving and someone cuts us off or forces their way into our lane; when our children are being silly and loud, ignoring our commands to stop; when we are sick, cranky or tired; when someone is sick and needs extra care; when our husband calls at the last minute to say he’s bringing the boss home for dinner (or to say he’s not going to be home for dinner—and you’ve taken the time to fix him his favorite!)