In a world where integrity is in serious danger of becoming little more than a comfortable score on a Scrabble board, we run the risk of losing connection with a basic principle that has long served as the adhesive constantly reconnecting the torn fragments of society.
Integrity is all about honesty. More than that it’s also about having strong moral principles.
In a democracy we elect our leaders based on our assessment of their integrity. But the sound moral and ethical principles that are the hallmark of integrity are flexible and malleable in a world that sees wealth, fame and power as desirable.
Integrity is all too often dependent on perspective and perspective changes with time and circumstance. Who we are and what we think today is often different to who were and what we thought in the past. Given that, further change and evolution is inevitable.
Dishonesty and moral degradation are societal millstones but they are core, individual problems. A myriad of small pictures make up the big picture.
One person can make a difference especially to that one person. Personal responsibility is key to mental balance, peace and wellbeing.
Integrity must be nurtured and generated from within. If we constantly struggle when it comes to being honest with ourselves we run the risk of being overwhelmed.
Personal honesty, acceptance and accountability are not always easy but always necessary. It’s vital that we know who we are and why we are so that we can become who we want to be.
A quote from Shakespeare that is as true today as when it was written says…”This above all: to thine own self be true. And it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
Honesty is always the best policy. And it starts at home.
Gary Bentley Counselling 