Character is fate.

The proverb means that character traits predict the kind of actions we’ll see. 

Who we are, what we believe, the standard we hold ourselves to, the things we do regularly, our personality traits—ultimately these are all better predictors of the trajectory of our lives than talent, resources, or anything else. 

Although we want to see the best in someone, many times we ignore the obvious. Or worse, we really want something, so we deny what is clear evidence of their character and justify it for the sake of getting what you want.

As Maya Angelou says, “When people show you who they are, believe them.”

Whether you believe this proverb to be true or not. Don’t use it simply to judge others. Use it to reflect on your own character and address your flaws.

What IS true is we have the ability to determine our own character—to address our traits and change them—and therefore chart the course of our destiny.