It’s hard to really judge a person’s moral character. But in certain situations, you can see a person’s heart more clearly.
What’s their reaction when faced with self-interest?
Faced with an opportunity for self-gain, a person can put on a mask of “goodness” in order to manipulate others and gain what is desired. But how can you trust such a person who isn’t led by their conscience, heart, or morality? A person who, on the contrary, sticks to his or her principles solidly will be respected for having a higher moral standard, virtue, and a good heart.
How do they treat others?
A person of good moral character naturally, from their heart, treats everyone well — no matter what their age, race, whether they’re rich or poor, senior or junior. A person of poor character, however, tends to flatter those who are senior to them and disrespect those who are junior.
Furthermore, a noble person will stand firm in his or her integrity when faced with irrationality, a power struggle, or arrogance.
How do they treat their family?
It’s easy to disrespect or lose your temper with your family members, especially with your parents or children. A person who can always stay calm and cheerful toward their family members is admirable.
In Asian culture, the virtue of filial piety is revered; there is a belief that you should always be courteous and respectful, no matter how difficult family relations may get. Importance is placed on speaking graciously, and on being humble and polite.
How do they honor a promise?
How a person honors a promise can say a lot about their character. A person of good character is trustworthy and will never break a promise without good reason.
Translated by Jean Chen and edited by Emikoo Kingswell