Vesta’s values have evolved over the years to capture the changing spirit of the ward. These changes have not been aimed at redefining the ward and neither have they been core changes of the value system. The changes are rather a reflection of the fact that the ward’s leaders are constantly trying to adapt to the spirit of the ward and seek to describe it as accurately as possible – this is because they realise its importance.

The founders of the ward envisioned the values of Loyalty, Respect, Integrity and Unity. They saw Vesta as an integrated community of people who look out for each other and respect each other like brothers. Their dream was that all Vestonians would be united in the brotherhood.

Loyalty may be interpreted incorrectly in this context. It is not meant to imply that one is to be loyal to one’s fellow Vestonian at all costs. It is certainly important to always keep the interests of all the other members of the community in mind, but it is more important to be loyal to the ward’s values and yourself.

In your interactions with everyone, in all facets of life, it is important to behave in a respectful manner. Never live in such a way or act in such a way as to infer harm onto someone else.

The values of Integrity and Unity have been replaced, over the years, with the value of Chivalry. The reason for this is simply that chivalrous and respectful behaviour, in the opinion of the first leaders of the ward, implied integrity. Furthermore, a loyalty to the values of the ward and the freedom of its members was deemed to be more appropriate than unity.

Chivalry does imply a lot more about the ward and its character. The classic images of opening a door for a lady or standing aside for others to enter a room first are good examples, but it is best to understand the underlying reason for them. Chivalrous behaviour is to be as considerate of others as possible and make them as comfortable as possible. Whenever you can see that someone else is being made uncomfortable (within reason) or someone isn’t enjoying themselves as much
as they can be, this is a true challenge to one’s chivalrous behaviour.