"When I do good, I feel good; when I do bad, I feel bad and that is my Religion." Abraham Lincoln.

Goodness essentially embodies all virtues. A good person stands out from the rest; his personality, his behavior, his actions stems from a solid foundation of human values. A good person has the ability to touch other lives; to spread goodness wherever he goes; to significantly impact all those around him long after he's departed. This is a natural phenomenon and goes both ways. You also need to feel good and be good yourself before you can do any good to others.

Let us now examine what are the qualities that make a person good.' What are the personal traits that set him apart? What really are the characteristics of a good person?

* Caring and Compassionate:

A good person inevitably exudes warmth wherever he goes. He is caring and compassionate at all times to all people. He maintains all relationships comfortably-be it in the family, at work or in a social setting. He conveys genuine care and concern; generates mutual love and respect; and demonstrates kindness to all his brethren.

Personal greatness arises out of caring and compassion for others. "There is more hunger in this world for love and appreciation than for bread." Mother Teresa.

* Honest and Trustworthy:

Being honest and trustworthy are the most important personal tools. A good person is honest to the core; he can be easily trusted; he is a promise keeper; when he gives you his word, you know you can count on it. He lives by truth with all people in all circumstances. He is truly dependable.

Truthfulness is the major element of a good character. Outward confidence arises with integrity on the inside.

* Courteous and Polite:

A good person is always polite. He attracts people and makes good manners a habit of the heart. He is courteous in his behavior. He respects the opinion of others and does not thrust his own. He has developed good inter-personal skills.

He listens to others viewpoints. He is considerate of others feelings. He is mindful of his judgment on others. He is never harsh in his comments. He is ever eager to please others. He wins the love and respect of those around him.

* A Well Balanced Personality:

Having a well-balanced personality is the hallmark of a good human being. A person who is essentially good, has mastered control of his emotions. Intellectual management of one's emotions entails being civilized at all times; under

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