Without character, wealth, education, social status, all these are of no avail. Character is the fragrance of the flower; it gives value and worth. Poets, painters, artists and scientists may each be great in their own field, but without character they can have no true standing. One may wonder whether all those who are now treated with respect by society have a character that entitles them to being considered great, but society is subject to fashions that vary from day to day. The basic nature of a flawless character is eternal, and remains the same whatever the vicissitudes of society. Among the qualities that make up a flawless character are love, patience, forbearance, steadfastness, charity – these are the highest, these have to be revered.

-Prema Vahini, Ch -1.