I heard the story about a young family's choice. It was a choice somewhat different than what I would make which gave me pause, but as I considered their rationale and efforts, I realized the choice, while different from what I'd do, was seemingly positive for them. There are many ways to live a good life and we have to be careful about judging the choices people make.
Similarly I'm watching young adults in my large, extended family make all kinds of differing life choices related to where they live, who they live with, what they do, how they recreate, and more. These young adults are traveling multiple positive paths in life, paths that bring interest and novelty to my life. There are many ways to live a good life.
With this variation in mind, how do we determine what creates a good life versus a not so good life--what's the difference?
A question like this brings me back to attributes of good character and positive values. Clearly, a good life exhibits the qualities of good character--qualities outlined on this chart:
With any choice and at any stage of life, we can consider the attributes of good character as we examine and evaluate our actions and choices.
With regard to values, we can compare choices to the values we hold for good living, values such as care for one another, life enriching choices, contribution, and love.
There are many ways to live a good life? It's important that we keep this truth in mind as we choose our own life path and learn about the good lives of others. Onward.