Integrity

A MATTER OF CHARACTER

In his autobiography Days of Grace (Random House Audio, 1993),
tennis great Arthur Ashe relates a defining incident that
occurred when he was 17 years old. He was playing in a tournament
in West Virginia. As was often the case, he was the only
contestant of color in the tournament.

One night, some of the kids trashed a cabin. They absolutely
destroyed it and then decided to say that Arthur was responsible.
The incident was reported in the newspapers; Arthur denied his
involvement, but the boys would not change their story. The worst
part for Arthur was worrying about what his father would say and
do. He eventually made the dreaded phone call.

As he surmised, his father had already learned of the vandalism.
His father's tone was grim. He asked Arthur only one question.
"Arthur Junior," he asked, "all I want to know is...were you
mixed up in that mess?"

Arthur answered, "No, Daddy, I wasn't." His father never asked
about it again. Arthur learned that day why he had always been
encouraged to tell the truth. There would come a time when he
must be believed, and this was such a time. Because he had
already earned his trust and respect, he knew his father believed
him. From that day on he was determined, above all else, to live
a life of integrity.

Unfortunately, we find notable examples of modern leaders in
every field who give low priority to personal integrity. But we
do not need saints - we need people like you. People who will be
known for their integrity. People who will determine to be their
best selves. People who daily earn the trust and respect of
others, regardless of their age or station in life. People who
insist on the importance of character.

Our world does not need another saint. But it needs you.