Carved Out of Oak

In Austria we have a saying that goes, ‘…aus gutem Holz geschnitzt.’

Literally, this translates to ‘being carved out of good wood’. This phrase will usually be used to describe someone of strong character.

Now, when it comes to trees, it is often easy to determine how strong a piece of wood is. Specialists can recognize the various types visually or even through smell, but for us laymen, it is often easiest to just perform a stress test… put some weight on a board and see how it holds up.

With people, similar methods can help us determine if we or others are carved out of good wood – though I do suggest using the smell test only sparingly.

We, of course, are not as simple as trees. Things are not always as they first seem when it comes to us humans:

Even a coward will be kind to the person standing before them.

Even a greedy man will treat those well who can return the favor.

Even a fool will love those who love him.

Even the prideful will remain calm when everyone agrees with them.

Even a thief will appear integrous when in a crowd.

Demonstrating virtuous behavior when it is driven by self-interest and a beneficial outcome for oneself does not prove moral character.

However, demonstrating virtuous behavior when one stands to gain nothing is evidence of moral resolve.

Furthermore, demonstrating virtuous behavior when the consequences are likely to be costly proves strong moral character.

So, how can we evaluate the character of people?

Following, are five questions I believe can be helpful in this process.

1. How does an individual speak of those who are not present?

Gossiping is strongly condemned in the writings of the bible. Also the Stoics believe gossiping is harmful and counter to leading a virtuous life. Eleanor Roosevelt said it best with these words: ‘Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.’

Does this mean we cannot speak about people? I would say no; we certainly can and must. People and relationships are a central part of our lives. The differentiating factor lies simply in what manner and to what end we speak of others.

2. How does an individual treat those who have nothing to offer them?

Embodying the archetype of the humble servant is an essential part of strong character. Pride washes out all virtues. Pride does not allow selfless acts of service (read more here). Looking toward others and helping in any way possible should not be a business move. Return on investment for oneself should not play a role when serving. If we do it simply for our own gain, then the only badge of honor we can claim is that of selfishness.

3. How does an individual treat those who hate him?

Jesus says we are to love our enemies. We should bless them as they curse us, do good to them while they hate us, and pray for them while they exploit us. Anyone can love a friend, but loving an enemy? This is rare. Watch and see who loves those who hate him, and you’ll see an individual with strong character.

4. How does an individual respond to being corrected?

Inevitably, everyone gets corrected at some point in life. And oh, how easily our ego gets bruised when this happens. When we are wrong, our reaction reveals at least one thing: Are we in pursuit of the truth or simply fighting to be right? The truth is a hill worth dying on; our pride is less of a hill and more like a valley of vultures that is not quite worth dying in.

5. How does an individual act when no one is watching?

This one obviously only works for self-evaluation (I do not promote being creepy).

Are we integrous and loyal to our values when no one is watching, or is it all just a performance when others are around? Would the ancient Greek Stoics look you in the eye and call you a hypokrites, an actor?

It seems that it is often when we are challenged, afraid, or alone behind closed doors that our true character is revealed.

Let's get back to the opening German phrase:

Aus welchem Holz bist du geschnitzt?

Are you made of strong oak, remaining unmoved in the storm, unapologetic for the space your wide root system of convictions occupies?

Or are you more akin to the softer pine swaying in the winds?

Of which wood are you carved?