A Model of Integrity

I enjoyed a relaxing weekend with friends and family even more so than usual because of the fantastic weather that fell upon my little corner of the world in Newfoundland & Labrador. While many ideas have raced through my mind related to the subject of my blog, I decided to 'resist the chatter' and let it come without force, trusting in the rhythm of life, knowing the theme of my next post would be revealed.

Here I am on Monday morning, sitting at my desk listening to the hum of a nearby lawnmower. Being in tune with my thoughts, I notice when they wander to: "Who in the world would be mowing the lawn today when it's 11 degrees and raining?" MY DAD, that's who!!

In a flash, I remembered that last night, following our Fathers' Day dinner, he had said he would be over in the morning. There's one thing in this world I can ALWAYS count on: my dad always does what he says he will do when he says he will do it. Always. Regardless of circumstance. His INTEGRITY has been one of his defining characteristics for as long as I have known him. Herein lies today's Lesson Learned.

There were many times (even today) when I would shake my head as my dad completed various tasks, busying himself to get things done, on time and in order. I would scratch my head and think, "Why doesn't he just relax? Why do we have to sacrifice? Why not enjoy the moment?" As a family, we were always saving money, working on the house, preparing for something in the future.

While my dad always had his eye on the goal, he really enjoyed the process as well, although this is not something I understood at the time. I learned the value in delayed gratification, the sense of satisfaction that comes as you work toward a goal - a holiday, graduation, a garden to grow. My dad taught me perseverance, commitment and loyalty.

He has never, once, told me that would do something, only to disappoint me at a later date. What a rare and admirable quality this is! I was blessed to have a father whose commitment to his word defines who he is. He can always be depended upon to deliver - at home, at work, at play and at peace. (More to come on Lessons Learned about BALANCE.)

I'm not saying that I have always agreed with Dad's choices. Over the years, I have judged him harshly on many occasions because my perception of his life was not the most favorable. I believe now that my dad always did the best he could. I also believe he is a Model of Integrity.

Imagine a world where EVERYONE did what they said they were going to do when they said they were going to do it! What a wonderful gift my dad gave me. I am grateful to him and for this Lesson Learned.