“To think is easy. To act is hard. But the hardest thing in the world is to act in accordance with your thinking.”
-Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
What does this quote mean to you?
Developing Values
Overview: Our values should come from within us (hearts and minds), not from outside influences (friends or peers). This is not as easy as it sounds because it requires us to have the courage to stand up for our convictions and accept consequences for our beliefs.
1. What thoughts and values do you hold that are different from some of your friends? Be as specific as you can.
2. What thoughts and values do you hold that are different from your parents/guardians? Be as specific as you can.
3. Courage is the ability to align your behaviors with your values. How have you been able to do this in your life? Have you ever had to pay a price for your convictions?
Value Clarification
Directions: You will develop your own values and beliefs on a variety of topics listed below. Choose three of the topics listed below and explain your beliefs and views on them. Be sure to explain why you believe what you do. This is a time to reflect seriously and contemplate your values, looking at all angles of an issue.
Affirmative Action
Abortion
Legalization of drugs
Military draft
Religion
Spanking Children
The War on Terror
Teenagers Becoming Parents
Respecting the Opposite Sex
Effects of Today’s Music on our Culture
