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Integrity

At the outset let make it clear my ‘focus’ for this week is not a reflection of any particular issue here at St. John the Baptist, Duncan.

At the same time, it is a word which flashed before me a few days ago as I reflected on some issues in my personal life.

Some research led me to stumble on this definition of integrity:

'Integrity:
Being honest and having strong moral principles.
A person with integrity behaves ethically and does the right thing, even behind closed doors.
For instance, informing a cashier they gave you too much change or going back to the store to pay for something you forgot to pay for are two examples of showing integrity in everyday circumstances.

 There are seven common traits that a person with integrity shows:

    1. Expressing gratitude for others.

    2. Valuing honesty and openness.

    3. Taking responsibility and accountability for your actions, good and bad.

    4. Respecting yourself and others around you no matter where you are.

    5. Helping those in need without sacrificing your own health.

    6. Demonstrating reliability and trustworthiness.

    7. Showing patience and flexibility, even when unexpected obstacles show up.'

( Elizabeth Perry, ICF )

This past fall, our Warden Michael McKinlay and I shared such an experience.

Two young members of our community found themselves involved in some mischief early one evening. As their actions had been observed by some adults, the police became involved. Through a process of the legal system, it was agreed they should take responsibility for their actions through community retribution. 

Saving the details, Michael and I met with one of the individuals, along with a parent and members of the Justice Institute. It was agreed this person would assist us in our kitchen at the Christmas Bazaar. Her father agreed to be part of the process. This agreement was established more than a month in advance of the Bazaar.

This is where integrity comes to play.

December 9th arrived.  As promised, the young lady and her father attended as agreed.

Upon reflection, in my many years of ordained ministry it is one of those moments when I have witnessed integrity at its finest. 

My first witness of integrity also involved youth. It was during the 70’s, when Senior governments established grants for local governments and volunteer organizations to employ youth in the community for summer work.

My experience, over 5 or so years, reflected the “integrity” shown by these youth.

In both situations, I learned about giving people a chance. I also learned a great deal about myself and the importance of integrity in the world. 

Now, as I survey the ‘landscape,’ I believe the world could definitely benefit from such displays of “integrity”.

Blessings for this week, 
Archdeacon Brian+