Integrity

 Integrity is something that I became aware of in my twenties as I began to study the gospel and gain a testimony.  I wanted that sense of peace that I knew would only come from living an honest life.  That decision has been an incredible blessing.  It has taken a lot of work. I grew up afraid of harsh punishments and consequences for mistakes.  As a result, I discovered that if I just didn't say anything or if I lied, things would go smoother.  Lying and rationalization became a tool of survival.  As I learned about my Savior and began to partake of his atonement, I learned that I did not need this tool.  That in fact, it was a harmful tool that caused me deep pain, stunted my opportunities,  kept me from real relationships and created heavy anxiety.  Almost fifteen years later, I am amazed at the peace living a life of integrity brings.

 We read a talk by Sheri Dew on integrity this week where she says, "..trust, which can only be engendered in an atmosphere of integrity, is the keystone that holds every organization together–whether it is a marriage or a family, a business or a nation, or even the kingdom of God."  I absolutely have a testimony of this.  In fact, we have a rule in our home.  You will not get in trouble for anything in our house except being unkind and lying.   Our home is a house of practice.  We are all going to make mistakes.  We shouldn't be afraid to try and fail.   Lying however prevents any growth.  For example, if a someone were to spill paint on the floor and come get me, I will thank them for telling me because now we can find a solution.  However, if they don't tell me, then the mess might become a permanent stain as the window to clean it up closes.  I tell my kids all the time, "We can fix anything as long as you tell me."  

Here are the links to the talks we read this week:
https://www2.byui.edu/Presentations/Transcripts/Devotionals/2004_03_16_Dew.htm

http://www2.byui.edu/Presentations/Transcripts/Devotionals/2010_10_12_Robbins.htm