Our core values are among our greatest assets. What are some of my values?

This is a long answer! And it is personally satisfying that as a senior person I can answer this much easier. Thirty years ago I would NOT have had as easy a time. I have a set of values based on the Benedictine Tradition infused with values of a rower (my sport).

STABILITY. …I used to hold this as a commitment to a physical place…now it has evolved to literally being grounded and balanced physically, mentally and emotionally. When I get knocked off balance (imagine a skier starting to lose control) recover as quickly as possible. This also transfers well in my rowing…as I have to keep from capsizing.

HOSPITALITY. …Welcoming everyone I cross in my day as being sent by God. There are no exceptions.

JUSTICE AND PEACE. …In Merton’s Seeds of Contemplation there is a great piece about how peace is not merely the absence of violence. It is the establishment of justice and addressing the needs of the victims of violence (including the deep injuries of the perpetrators). Hard work. Demands compassion that seems impossible much of the time. I cannot do it alone. The front lines against hatred, bigotry, cruelty, jealousy and envy are within myself.

OBEDIENCE. …Being on time. Keeping my promises. NOT over promising. Finding the teachers and mentors that are put in front of me and both asking for help and then committing to follow their advise. Mostly all of which pushes me beyond my self-imposed personal limits.

PRAYER. …Sending positive energy out in all directions all the time.

STEWARDSHIP. …I am a guest. Being a good guest I pitch in when possible, clean up after myself, and assume no property rights so-to-speak. None of this is MINE.

COMMUNITY…a sense of duty and obligation to a team, working towards a common objective, deferring personal gratification for the greater good of the whole.