"Character is like a tree and reputation like a shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing"

This quote by Abraham Lincoln speaks with the significance of character over reputation. Character resembles a tree, a strong and tangible thing that is rooted in reality. Credibility, on the other hand, resembles a shadow, an intangible and fleeting thing that is based upon understanding. The shadow is what people think about us, but the tree is the real thing. It is our character that specifies us, not our track record. We need to strive to build a strong character, as it is the structure of our lives. Our credibility may reoccur, however our character will remain. We ought to concentrate on developing our character and not fret excessive about our reputation, as it is just a reflection of our character.