Youthblog : Christian Youth Work & Ministry

And for youth workers:

"Be more concerned with your character than your reputation. Your character is what you really are while your reputation is merely what others think you are."

John Wooden again.

Is that second quote really true, Ray? Surely if the kids think you're an idiot (or whatever) they're not going to listen to your Gospel message (or anything else you have to say). Character is important, of course, but reputation/image must surely play some part in it too...

Well, he didn't say *don't* be concerned with your reputation, but be *more* concerned with your character. And I would go with that. Reputation is superficial and can be faked or undeserved. And if its not the real you, the facade may come crashing down some day (probably will in fact).

Character is the *real* you and should shine through and shape your reputation. I think. Therefore more important to cultivate a good character than a superficial image I would say.