A GOOD NAME

There's a lot to be said about a name. Not all artists and writers are embraced by people.  Some writers have written exceptional good reads that only maybe read by a few. There are others who will be on the best sellers list, not necessarily  because of their writing but because of their well known name.

There is an English definition for a good name that says, he/she comes of a good stock. Another is, he/she is well bred; one who is well mannered and courteous or comes from a good breeding.

The Bible says in Proverbs 22:1 says, A good name is more desirable than great riches.

What constitutes a good name?

A seasoned gentleman gave a talk some time ago on four qualities which constitutes a good name.

- Honesty...This quality does not necessarily evolve because we come from good stock or we have a famous name. I remember on one occasion when our son was  around three years old, coming out of the grocery store and while putting him in the car, I noticed both hands were made into a fist. I became suspicious and asked him to show me his hands. Those little hands held all the candy it could manage. This involved going back to the store, and personally returning the candy to a clerk and telling her what he had done was wrong. I am not a famous person but I would consider my name to be of value from good stock and a lesson was learned in honesty that day.

- Integrity...While integrity is linked to honesty it goes a step further. Its the quality of being honest with strong moral principles. C.S. Lewis said Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.

-Generosity...Generosity is more than just giving of monetary and tangible things. Giving can involve nurturing others, forgiveness, courage, respect, loyalty and even celebrating.

-Contentment...Our circumstances should not define our contentment. In spite of our circumstances good or bad, our contentment and happiness  depends upon our personal choice. Paul was in prison when he penned those words; "I have learned in whatever state I am in to be content." (Philippians 4:11)
"We may pass violets looking for roses. We may pass contentment looking for victory." Bernard Williams

If my name can  contribute to these qualities then I will have passed on a legacy to my children, a name of good stock!