Gordon B. Hinckley: 'Respect for self is the beginning of cultivating virtue in men and women.'

Respect for self is the beginning of cultivating virtue in men and women.

In his profound statement, Gordon B. Hinckley encapsulates the essence of virtue by emphasizing the significance of self-respect as its foundational aspect. At a glance, this quote suggests that one must value themselves before they can embark on a journey toward cultivating virtues such as integrity, kindness, and humility. It emphasizes the inherent link between self-worth and moral development, serving as a guiding principle in forging strong character and moral conduct.To further explore this idea, let us introduce the intriguing concept of existentialism – a philosophical school of thought that contemplates the nature of human existence and the responsibilities that accompany it. In contrast to Hinckley's quote, existentialism posits that individuals create their own values in a world devoid of inherent meaning. It suggests that embracing personal freedom and taking responsibility for one's choices is essential in shaping one's values and virtues.While on the surface, these two ideas may appear contradictory, a deeper examination unveils points of convergence and a unified path to personal growth. Hinckley's quote targets the importance of self-respect as the bedrock for cultivating virtues, acknowledging the fundamental role it plays in understanding one's worth and purpose in the world. This notion aligns with existentialism's emphasis on self-awareness and the individual's power to shape their values autonomously.Hinckley's quote implies that self-respect serves as the catalyst for personal growth and virtuous behavior. By recognizing their inherent value and treating themselves with respect, individuals build a solid foundation upon which virtues can thrive. This self-respect serves as a driving force, propelling individuals to engage in reflection, growth, and the cultivation of virtues. Conversely, without a base of self-respect, a person's pursuit of virtue may be marred by insecurity, self-doubt, and an inability to recognize their own worthiness.Existentialism's contribution to this discussion lies in its encouragement of personal freedom and individual responsibility. According to existentialism, an individual's freedom to define their values is accompanied by the responsibility to make choices that align with those values and contribute positively to their lives and the world. This resonates with Hinckley's idea that self-respect is the starting point for virtue, as it necessitates taking ownership of one's choices and actions and aligning them with the virtues one seeks to cultivate.Together, these perspectives present a holistic approach to personal growth and moral development. By recognizing the importance of self-respect, individuals embrace their worthiness and embark on a journey toward the cultivation of virtues. Simultaneously, existentialism's acknowledgment of personal freedom and responsibility provides a framework for actively shaping one's values and making choices aligned with virtuous principles.In conclusion, Gordon B. Hinckley's quote, "Respect for self is the beginning of cultivating virtue in men and women," offers valuable insight into the interconnectedness of self-respect and the development of virtues. Through the lens of existentialism, we discover the parallels between Hinckley's emphasis on self-respect and the existentialist notion of personal freedom and responsibility. Together, these concepts demonstrate that self-respect is not only essential for personal well-being but also serves as the cornerstone for human beings to lead a virtuous and meaningful life.