Each newsletter we will be sharing a virtue that will be the focus in our school over the following three weeks.  Our first Virtue Focus is Honesty.

What is Honesty? Being honest is being open, trustworthy and truthful.  When people are honest they can be relied on not to lie, cheat or steal.  Honesty is telling the truth.  It is admitting mistakes, even when you know someone might be angry or disappointed.  Being honest means that you don't pretend to be someone you are not.  With honesty, you can trust things to be as they appear.

Why Practice it? Honesty is important because it builds trust.  When people lie or cover up mistakes, others can't trust them.  When people aren't honest with themselves, they pretend that something doesn't matter or they exaggerate to impress others.  When you are honest with yourself, you accept yourself as you are.  When you are honest others can believe you.

How do you practice it? When you are honest, you don't try to fool yourself or others.  You say what you mean and mean what you say.  You only make promises you can keep.  Be trustworthy in all your dealings, refusing to lie or cheat.  Admit your mistakes and fix them.  Be honest with yourself and you will be honest with others.  You don't need to make things up to look good. 

Signs of Success Congratulations!  Your are pracricing honesty when you...

• Say what you mean and mean what you say.
• Make promises you can keep.
• Admit your mistakes.
• Refuse to lie or cheat or steal.
• Tell the truth tactfully.
• Are true to yourself and say what you know is right.