Before publishing this article, I sent it to a couple of friends. One reacted strongly, telling me I was wrong. I’m just pleased he proved my point entirely!
We all applaud people of integrity, don’t we? Those who have a well-developed sense of right and wrong: strong values which they apply consistently in their lives. These people become highly trustable because they are reliable.
Integrity means living by our values – standards we deem vital for success.
Most cling to these, admiring them in others, yet unconsciously measure others against them.
If their values align, we see integrity. If they diverge, we judge them lacking – a flaw in a diverse world.
But is it right to judge them by our own standards?
Our values, shaped by our unique lives and cultures, aren’t universal. Others’ values, forged by their lived experiences, cultures, challenges, and goals, may suit them perfectly.
Judging their integrity by our yardstick breeds discord.
Celebrating diversity demands respect – accepting their values as potentially right for their world, not ours.
We needn’t agree or adopt their ways, but let’s talk, share, and accommodate.
This opens a path to mutual understanding, not conflict.
Reflect: Are your standards uniting or dividing
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