This is a piece that copies the style of Benjamin Franklin’s own project of arriving at moral perfection I have come to realize that in life, people follow their own set of virtues and these virtues are different for each and every person. For many people, religion provides structure and meaning to life. Without a strong, or minimal for that matter, belief in religion, a person’s life can lack a sense of structure or meaning. I do not closely follow any religion and at times lack a purpose for my life.
Upon this revelation I decided to define my own set of virtues so that I can follow them more closely and observe whether I follow them consistently or whether I falter in my constitution. These are what I have determined are my virtues and their teachings: 1. Honesty When speaking, speak the Truth. 2. Discretion Remember not only to say the right thing at the right place, but, far more difficult still, leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.
3. Integrity Do unto others as you wish others to do unto you. 4. Determination No matter what your mission is, have the strength of character to finish it. 5. Gain from Life Live life to the fullest.
6. Freedom Do not waste your life, live it as you wish to. I believe that I follow these virtues more closely than anything else in my life. Be that as it may, when I consider my days and what I have accomplished with my time I examine how often I adhere to these traits, and often I find myself wanting in this respect. I would hope that I can change so that I can live my life in a way that is as close as is humanly possible to my ideal life. This is not an easy undertaking and I find that this will take time and patience to complete such a task.
The Essay on Analysis of Life, Death and the After-Life in Religion
Do not stand at my grave and weep;I am not there, I do not sleep.I am a thousand winds that blow.I am the diamond glints on snow.I am the sunlight on ripened grain.I am the gentle autumn rain.When you awaken in the morning's hushI am the swift uplifting rushOf quiet birds in circled flight.I am the soft stars that shine at night.Do not stand at my grave and cry;I am not there, I did not die.-- ...
Hopefully, however, time and patience are readily available and this quest can be completed.
