It’s difficult to turn on a television or view the Internet without seeing examples of people doing bad things and reaping rewards for it. For instance, Jordan Belfort, the real-life “Wolf of Wall Street,” conned piles of money from innocent, hardworking people but spent little time suffering for his crime. Now he’s reaping royalties from the smash movie about him and being paid to tell the story of his sordid past.
There are endless examples of people doing wrong who never seem to suffer for it. This can be disheartening to a man who is fighting to maintain the goodness in his family. However, there is good news. We don’t do the right thing for our own personal satisfaction. Men who do the right thing, who own their responsibilities, lay solid foundations that will last for generations. But there are still three more important reasons to do the right thing, starting now.
1. Integrity matters.
Having integrity sets the example that will build the foundation our children are growing upon. Football coach Lou Holtz says, “I follow three rules: Do the right thing, do the best you can, and always show people you care.” That’s integrity. When we practice it, our lives are well lived.
2. The truth will come out.
When we benefit from questionable actions and non-ethical practices, we leave behind a trail of pain that others feel. If you don’t pay the price for your actions, someone else will. But what happens in the dark eventually will be brought to the light. That’s guaranteed.
3. A man’s word is his bond.
If we are ever going to truly advance our families forward, it’s of the utmost importance that we keep our word. Show me a person who is untrustworthy and I will show you a lonely person. There are critical moments in life in which we absolutely need a friend to grab our hands and lift us up. Will anyone grab yours when the time comes? Or will others believe you’re getting what you deserve?
Sound off: Have you ever chosen to do the right thing instead of accepting a sizable gain with questionable morals?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What do you think are some of the consequences of lacking integrity?”