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.
~ Steve Goodier ~
[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright © 2006 (LifeSupport@yahoogroups.com) -- {used with permission} ]
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