Who or what defines character?

Since the end of October, I have started to actually watch television. I had the television set up for three weeks before the assault, but had taken maybe an hour to watch in those three weeks. Then, when I had nothing to do for the long term, I started to watch. I really enjoy the news, but I always have, but now that it's reaching the point that I can read again - kind of - my TV viewing will probably drop!

But, I have discovered NCIS. And the station that shows the most NCIS is USA. And USA has been advertising their interest in characters for the entire time with slogans like "Characters Welcome." And now they are advertising their new book filled with the characters that make America great.

Only one problem. I'm NOT in that book. I'm not in there as a photographer, journalist, or character.

Doesn't really bother me, but then my daughter said, "What about me?" and it got me thinking. I'd thought that a time or two when I'd seen the commercials, but I hadn't said it. I enjoy books that show America and Americans as who and what we are. The good, the bad, the beautiful, and the ugly all have a place in creating the fantastic world we live in.

Character - good character is - is one of the most valuable things any individual can posses. It makes a huge difference in our interpersonal communication and relationship skills. Being honest with ourselves and others would eradicate many of the problems currently plaguing our Nation and our World. So, when we are talking about character and characters that create our daily lives, what are the criteria for making those decisions.

Some of the most interesting people I have ever met are people who have been at odds with society in one way or another. They could be called characters! The body art and piercings and strange hair styles and outlandish clothing could be considered signs of individuals that are recognized as characters.

In theater, the best parts to play are the character parts. In Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean, the main character is most fascinating because of the character of the part. From the beginning of the movie, it is the character, with his off-balance characteristics, that pull the movie watcher in and keep them involved. But, is Captain Jack a character that you want emulated by your children? Honesty is not his strongest trait - far from it. He is able to communicate rather well with his friends and foes alike, but would you be enthusiastic to see your son or daughter communicate in that way with you?

In Doubt, which I saw live on stage prior to the Glenn Closer movie release, character issues are explored as they are intertwined with the characters that are acting out their dilemmas. It brings out some invigorating and interesting questions about our characters and what is right or wrong, good or bad.

Look around you. Who are the characters in your life? Who do you like, love, appreciate, despise? What are the characteristics that contribute to your reactions to those individuals?

What is the deciding factor for you in who or what defines character?