The Three R's--and Others

We cite again words from Herbert Hoover, who said: “We need to add to the three R’s, namely, Reading, ‘Riting and ‘Rithmetic, a fourth⎯Responsibility.” There are some other R’s that could be added, among them Resolution, Respect, and Reverence. These are ingredients that must be included in any life of high character and quality. Our youth must know that nothing of desirable consequence comes easily or without effort, and life is not an irresponsible interlude, but a schooling, a discipline, a training ground, a place for learning, an obligation and opportunity. Purposeful, happy, successful living comes with developing talents, character, and in accepting real responsibility with reverence and respect. Sir John Herschel called self-respect “the cornerstone of all virtue.” “It is necessary to the happiness of man,” said Thomas Paine, “that he be mentally faithful to himself.” “The simple virtues of willingness, readiness, alertness and courtesy will carry a young man farther than mere smartness.” “Even genius…” said Bulwer-Lytton, “is but fine observation strengthened by fixity of purpose.” “The greatest results in life are usually attained by simple means and the exercise of ordinary qualities. These may for the most part be summed in these two⎯common sense and perseverance.” There is another quality for success and that is solvency. Each generation, each individual, each institution, must face financial facts, and meet its obligations without needlessly mortgaging the future. Such are some of the qualities of character that youth must cultivate and acquire. And beside “Reading, ‘Riting and ‘Rithmetic,” as Herbert Hoover said it, we who have a responsibility for shaping their lives must find effective ways to teach our children Responsibility, Resolution, Respect⎯and Reverence⎯for “in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things.”