All claims of character are cheap unless they have been truly tested.
It is impossible to know the extents of my integrity, devotion, forgiveness, and courage unless they have been challenged by grief, poverty, hunger, thirst, fear, illness, betrayal, injustice, or violence.
Even “the good life” will test me: How can anyone declare themselves virtuous in the absence of temptation?
So, are my convictions strong enough to resist the highest bidder?
Pushed to the limits, would I put my principles above my own comfort and safety?
… and possibly above my very existence?
