In a time of shifting landscapes and uncertain futures, those things that remain unchanged become ever more critical. This book is devoted to those permanent things.Here, Dean Abbott reflects on the few constants of life as he explores the dynamics of personal character, and how the pursuit of virtue can set us free from the anxiety and turmoil the world inflicts. Readers looking for guidance on how to develop the kind of character that serves as a rock will find it here.Because personal character is always formed in a social context, the author also considers how our modern age tempts us all toward nihilism and lonely despair. Anyone opening this book it likely to close it again with a greater understanding of our time and a fresh perspective on how to make the most of it.