District 6450 Winner
Rotary Club of Moraine Valley
Kate Moran, Second Place
Conrady Jr. High, Hickory Hills, IL
Teacher: Mrs. Baltimore
Today, I am going to talk to you about the Four Way Test. The Four Way Test is a test of our citizenship, morals, and ethics in the things we think say and do. We should think of thse four questions in any and every situation we are in.
The questions we should aks ourselves are
Is it the TRUTH?
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all Concerned?
Is it the truth? This is a good question we should always ask ourselves. People that tell the truth are honest and trustworthy. In telling the truth you build friendships and bonds with people. Sometimes the truth is hard to hear or accept, but in the end it is always beneficial to all involved. Those that do not tell the truth often tell lie after lie, and can never be believed. Not telling the truth does not build friendships it only makes enemies.
Is it fair to all concerned? When answering this question, we should think of all people involved, not just ourselves. Being fair is often very difficult, but at the same time the right thing to do. Fairness can mean that all individuals involved need to make compromises. In making compromises everyone gets a fair alternative. Being fair is the right thing to do, but not always the easiest thing to agree on.
Will it build goodwill and better friendships? This can often be a confusing question to some. What you feel is the moral thing to do may not be what someone else feels is correct. If you know in your heart that what you say or do for someone is the right thing to do, then you often build goodwill and better friendships.
Will it be beneficial to all concerned? In making decisions that will be beneficial to all, we sometimes have to make sacrifices. When making these decisions knowing the outcome will be benefiting all, can sometimes make the decision easier.
The philosophy of the Four Way Test challenges many areas of the thought process. The test gives you the opportunity to look at your morals and ethics. Finally, if you use the Four-Way Test in everyday life you will definitely be a better citizen, friend, and family member.