Integrity

We often think of integrity as doing what is right. It is far more profound than that, however. Just doing the right thing is good behavior. Even the most dishonest person will do the right thing from time to time because it is to their advantage. True integrity, however, is a quality in a person that results in doing the right thing. It is their moral compass so to speak, that directs their life and it results in the right actions. It is their character.

People who believe in the Scout Oath & Law build the quality of integrity into their lives. Not by what they can and cannot do, but by learning and understanding what is the right thing to do. Those who do not understand this quality always see it as rules and restrictions, but that is never the reality. It is like the French Philosopher Albert Camus said, “Integrity does not need rules.”

“A person of integrity is one who has established a system of values against which

 all of life is judged.”

V. Gilbert Beers

Author

People who live for their gain see integrity as rules because they have to force the behavior. Scouters, on the other hand, know that since it comes from within, there is no effort, only a natural desire to do what is right. Inventor, R. Buckminster Fuller said, “Integrity is the essence of everything successful.” It will always bring a good outcome and always pave the way for more success.

Here is the challenge; however, we are bombarded every day with reasons to compromise.  The thinking is that a person really does not have to be right all the time and that everyone gives in to compromise now and then. Nigerian author Chinua Achebe understood this when he wrote, “One of the truest tests of integrity is its blunt refusal to be compromised.” He knew that successful people do not compromise, no matter what those around him or her may do.

Remember that to be a person of integrity, a faithful Scouter, you must see it as a character trait, not a behavior. You do what is right because it is right. Many things are legal and permissible but are not right. The Scouter knows the difference. They will not blur the lines of right and wrong and hide behind the excuse that it is legal or that others do it. It is a hard stand to take, but it is one that will lead to a more excellent victory in life and a more prosperous future.

“A righteous man who walks in his integrity – how blessed are his sons after him.”

– Proverbs 20:7

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey