One
of the primary concerns of the SJ is to belong – yet not simply for himself
(that is, because of who he is), but because he has worked to belong and
deserves it. The attitude of an SJ often tends towards being parental, with a
longing to be needed. They almost desire to be “bound and obligated.”[1]
A deeply rooted belief in hierarchy is a sizable part of what makes an SJ function.
SJs
tend to be a little pessimistic in all they do, or at least, the strongest SJs
are. This comes partially from a strong sense of reality. They long and strive
to be prepared for anything that may occur. They want to be useful, to belong
in the groups they are near.
One
unique characteristic of the SJ is that he feels strongly that it is “his duty
to give, serve, and care for.”[2]
He does not like to accept care from others, since he is, in his own mind, the
one who should be giving it. They have a strong sense of caring, especially for
the very young and old. It is the SJs who conserve and save, most especially in
any line of work they may be in: pastor, accountant, banker, manager, medical
fields, etc. Often they may end up in a position of some power, revealing
themselves to be conservative in spending and life in general. They are also
very responsible, but often without the thanks and appreciation that such
responsibility should receive. This responsibility results in many SJs being
teachers, librarians, dentists, or entering other solidly respectable lines of
work.
One
of their most distinguishing characteristics is their passion for tradition. To
an SJ, history is of the utmost importance. They want to learn the lessons of
history and put them to practical use. And, to an SJ, tradition is there and
inherently rooted somehow in history.
