Speak and Live Your Truth

Relationships are complex things. I liken them to a great big jigsaw puzzle with each of us trying to find our corner where the pieces fit. One thing I know for sure, your word, your intentions, your choices can bring a relationship closer to heaven or send it diving into the depths of hell. If I had to chose one quality for me that stands out above the rest that helps to strengthen a relationship... it would integrity.

Wikipedia defines Integrity as: consistency of actions, values, methods, measures, principles, expectations and outcome. Integrity may be seen as the quality of having a sense of honesty and truthfulness in regard to the motivations for one's actions.

The key phrase for me is "consistency of actions". That which you repeatedly do creates your reality. Oh, and honesty, HONESTY is right up there at the top of my list. I never knew how important honesty was until I dealt with a very dishonest person. Even before that encounter I always try to tell the truth... even when I don't want to (although my friends would say I still have to work on my delivery). Sometimes I think that me being so forthright gives me the liberty to take the moral high road. I've come to realize, however, that my Truth with a big "T" is only one half of the story. Other people can tell their Truth and with all honesty think they are being consistent in their actions and true to their word. I'm not here to judge. I'm not here to point out rights and wrongs. As I struggle with the friendships in my life I wanted to share what has helped me... so that I don't turn left... when I know I should be turning right. Maybe you'll find something in it to help you also.

Living with integrity means:

• Not settling for less than what you know you deserve in your relationships.
  
• Asking for what you want and need from others.
  
• Speaking your truth, even though it might create conflict or tension.
  
• Behaving in ways that are in harmony with your personal values.
  
• Making choices based on what you believe, and not what others believe Barbara De Angelis
  

I'll add... treat others as you want to be treated. It is just that simple and it is just that hard.