What does this Emerson quote mean?

Question

The force of character is cumulative

Answer 1

Character is outwardly reflected in actions (good decisions).  The force of character is the effect of the good decisions.  Emerson is suggesting that as we display good character, we improve our character--that is to say that the results of our good decisions reinforce the behavior and make us even better people.  

I might suggest that the force of poor character is equally cumulative.  That is when we make bad decisions...the impact of those decisions makes our character decline.  

See?  It works both ways.  People with good character become better, people with poor or weak character become worse.  

Teachme