“Go out of your way to do what is right, speak the truth with the weight and authority that come from an honest and pure life.” (Titus 2:7 VOICE)
According to Aristotle, friendships are often based on pleasure, utility, or virtue. Relationships based on pleasure focus on mutual interests, having fun, and seeking self-gratification. When the good times end, these connections are severed. Utilitarian partnerships are based on mutual benefit. Think of work colleagues who may help advance each other’s careers. The third type of friendship is based on virtue. The bonds that hold this relationship together are mutual appreciation and respect for the core values of the other person. Being in such a relationship leads to growth and goodness for all involved.
While friendships based on fun and usefulness are shallow and temporary, relationships based on virtue have depth and value. Experience teaches us these truths. Maturity leads us to seek out purity and emulate goodness. Being in the presence of a decent person can make us want to be better human beings. Goodness attracts goodness. Thus, let us go out of our way to do what is right and speak truth--striving to be role models who are incorruptible and befriend those who are honorable.
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