The Nature of Action

Action describes movement of the body. This may be walking, running, driving, carrying, talking, singing, writing, building, painting, or any other behavior that can be observed by another. Sometimes the most wise behavior is patience, stillness, quiet or some other form of willful inaction, and it is therefore included in this scope. Wise action is carefully chosen and well executed.

At its best, action is committed, passionate, and generous.

Stages

Action becomes more significant and purposeful as it progresses through the following stages:

• Doing Good—Lasting improvement in human well-being, world-wide
• Courage—Value-based action despite temptation
• Engagement—Activity toward goals
• Thrashing—Motion without purpose
• Passive—Inactive, inert