This is my list
1. Intelligence : Cannot help but notice and admire an intelligent person. Intelligence to me is not only knowledge but the ability to assimilate and understand facts and maybe use them in some form. What is even more appealing is humility in a knowledgeable person. Definitely a haughty showoff is very putting off.
2. Sense of humor: Very high up on my list. Those who can laugh and make others laugh are truly such wonderful company. Everyone likes to be surrounded with happiness. Witty humor is so good. Sometimes even empty humor with old friends is so much fun. Empty as in just talking stuff without much meaning but a lot of fun, nonetheless.
3. Sensitivity: I am sucker for genuine emotions. I have no patience for weepy people. I can’t stand people shedding tears at the drop of a hat and I feel quite ill equipped to deal with such people. Sensitivity leads to understanding and empathy. Those who can relate to others’ pain, are sensitive to children, the unprivileged, animals and in general sensitive in the way they treat people around them are truly sensitive people. It does not take much to lose one’s temper or control. It takes a lot for someone to do the right thing and to stand up for the right thing.
4. Simplicity: Growing up in Bombay, I saw a lot of showoffs, really artificial people. The quality which really strikes me is honest, down-to-earth simplicity. People who are loud in their dressing, their talk, are greedy are instant put-offs. I like normal people with simple wishes in life with grounded roots.
5. Trustworthiness: Those who know what to share and what not to. Among women mostly, it is my experience that any thing shared is thought to be meant for public consumption. Most women do not hesitate revealing someone else’s secrets publicly. Those who are able to exercise their discretion and are trustworthy enough not to reveal things easily are really hard to find these days.
6. Honesty: People in power who are not corrupt and even simple practices of taking only what is yours is such a sterling quality in these times of avarice.
I remember writing a blog post about my pet peeves. That felt nice – ranting about the irritating traits I see around me :). Today, I want to acknowledge the positive traits of countless people around me – friends, relatives, strangers…… who have touched me with some sterling part of themselves.