Taking a Hint from Benjamin Franklin

Temperance, silence, order, resolution, frugality, industry, sincerity, justice, moderation, cleanliness, tranquility, chastity, and humility.  What do these incredibly difficult characteristics have in common?  Benjamin Franklin includes these thirteen virtues in his autobiography, explaining his overly formulaic attempt to improve his character and lifestyle.  So...what's the point?  Well, you see, Franklin also explained how after coming up with the thirteen virtues, he tracked his progress on the virtues in a log organized for each day of the week (see the example below).  He built on his virtues in succession - once he mastered the first one, he'd add the second.  Once he mastered the second, he'd add on the third.  He did this with each one until he'd mastered them all (or at least he'd come close).  At the end of this section of his autobiography, he leaves his readers with the following words: "I hope, therefore, that some of my descendants may follow the example and reap the benefit."  Ladies and Gentlemen, I am one of those descendants who has chosen to take on the task of reaping the benefits!

I have talked a lot in the past about resolutions, changes, additions, and any other number of improvements I'd like to make to my life.  However, I often feel so overwhelmed by this list of self-improvements that nothing gets done!  I first read about Benjamin Franklin's quest for virtue last year when teaching Rationalist literature to my American Literature class.  I found it intriguing then, but, being in the crazy phase of life that I was, I didn't have the time to think any further than that.  When I taught the unit this year, I thought more about Franklin's quest as well as his "hope" to pass on his lesson to his descendants.  I have to admit that I'm still hesitant.  I've never been any good at sticking to life changes that don't come naturally (and those that come naturally typically aren't positive).  Still, I'm going to do this, and I'm starting at the new year.

January first is a week from tomorrow.  If I'm starting my list of virtues then, that means I have to come up with a list, plan what order I'd like to conquer them in, create my own virtue log, and begin.  My challenge to you is to consider doing the same.  What do you want to improve in your life?  Is it your health?  Your sleeping habits?  Your prayer life?  Something altogether different?  Consider it.  And once you have, pursue the change.