This post is about integrity — the alignment between what we value and how we act. Integrity shows up not in what we say, but in the choices we make when circumstances become difficult.
In recent years, the volatile real estate market has tested many homeowners. One friend’s experience stands out as a clear example of living by one’s values. Early in his marriage, he bought a small home with strong long-term potential. When he and his wife were expecting their first child, he chose to move closer to extended family, even though it meant taking a less promising position. That decision reflected exactly what mattered most to him.
As the market declined, selling the home became impossible, so he kept it as a rental while purchasing another house in his hometown. For years, he managed two mortgages, a growing family, and a career that wasn’t progressing as he hoped. Eventually, a better opportunity required relocating again, this time farther from family. He made the difficult choice to move, recognizing that providing for his family was now the priority.
Through all of this, the original house remained a financial strain. Today, the renters want to buy it, but only at a price far below the mortgage. To sell, he’ll have to absorb the loss personally. Letting the property go into foreclosure would be far easier — but it wouldn’t align with who he is. And that, ultimately, is the test: choosing the path consistent with one’s values, even when the cost is high.
His situation is a powerful reminder that integrity is revealed in moments when doing the right thing is inconvenient, uncomfortable, or expensive. When we ignore our inner compass, regret usually follows. When we follow it, we strengthen our character.
This week, reflect on your own alignment.
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Do your actions consistently reflect what you say matters?
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Are there areas where convenience is outweighing conviction?
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Are you honoring your responsibilities, your relationships, and your deeper sense of right and wrong?
Ovid captured this beautifully: “Our integrity is never worth so much as when we have parted with our all to keep it.”
Kathleen