The next six posts on this blog will be dedicated to stimulating discussion about the program, and clarifying the intent of program activities. In this blog, I will focus on the question "What is Cornerstones?"
This topic will be split into two groups of statements: "Cornerstones Is" & "Cornerstones Is Not". With these statements, I intend to clarify a number of points about the program in its current state.
Cornerstones is ... a 'catalyst' for improvement of the chapter and the individual member of Acacia.
Cornerstones is not ... a 'status'. In other words, a chapter can't "be Cornerstones", but they can attain a certain level of proficiency in implementing the guidelines for the program.
Cornerstones is ... an attitude or mindset or willingness to seek continuous personal development.
Cornerstones is not ... something you do once, and you're done.
Cornerstones is ... based on personal choice and commitment.
Cornerstones is not ... based on top-down compliance.
Cornerstones is ... a set of guidelines for personal growth and development.
Cornerstones is not ... capable of developing those who don't already want to improve themselves.
Cornerstones is ... at the basic level, about having written goals, a personal vision for the future that is based on individual strengths, and being a productive and positive contributor to your community.
Cornerstones is not ... capable of ensuring that 100% of our members will "do better" simply because they "know better". In other words, teaching the ideals of Cornerstones will certainly help members "know more about the world and about himself", but when it comes to their actual behavior, there are more factors at play than just this program.
Cornerstones is ... a worthy challenge for active members.
Cornerstones is not ... difficult to understand. Having the discipline and perseverance to always be developing as an individual is not a difficult concept to understand, but is is a difficult thing to do, at first.
Cornerstones is ... having a willingness to reflect on the activities that we do in terms of 3 questions:
1) "What?" What activity or developmental opportunity did you just do?
2) "So What?" How is it relevant to your life?
3) "Now What?" What will you do now that you have this new knowledge, attitude, or experience.
In closing, the Cornerstones Program is for you, the individual member. Our promise as fraternity men is stated in our vision statement - "Preparing Tomorrow's Leaders". We must remain open and receptive to the always changing world, always paying attention to what is happening around us to identify opportunities to make a positive impact.
Acacia Fraternity intends to partner with you to propel you toward success in your life - however you would like to define success, and as long as you are willing to answer the call...
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