Growing up in Washington D.C. in a family and community of proud people who cared for one another one of the things that was taught to me by my parents when I was growing up hearing them say to me and my siblings "Make sure that as you go through life that you be as kind to people as you can be, because you never know who the person will be that may just give you your last drink of water." Another quote that I learned and has stuck with me is from Winston Churchill, "We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give." The three most important things that I have lived by and taught my children and grandchildren are never to compromise your Honesty, Integrity, or Dignity.
Honesty
Honesty is essential for building healthy relationships, both personally and professionally. It forms the foundation of trust and credibility, essential for both personal and professional connections. By embracing honesty, we commit to being truthful in our words and actions, fostering an environment of openness and authenticity. Being honest means acknowledging our mistakes and communicating transparently. This empowers us and those around us, leading to stronger collaboration and respect. We believe when we are honest with ourselves, we build trust with ourselves and others. When we are truthful about our thoughts, feelings, and actions, we create a foundation of trust that others can rely on.
Integrity
We believe in being honest and having strong moral principles. Integrity is a core value that reflects our commitment to honesty and consistency in our actions, beliefs, and decisions. It means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and being accountable for our choices. Upholding integrity fosters trust and credibility, both in personal and professional relationships. It requires us to stand by our principles, to be transparent, and to act ethically in all situations. By embracing integrity, we create a foundation of respect and reliability that strengthens our communities. Through our dedication to integrity, we encourage others to act with the same commitment, paving the way for a culture of authenticity and responsibility.
Dignity
Dignity is a fundamental principle that underscores our belief in the inherent value of every person. We recognize that every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances, deserves respect and acknowledgment. Promoting dignity means treating others with honor and kindness, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. It is essential in building a just society where equality is upheld, and each person's worth is celebrated. Through our actions, we strive to uphold dignity in every interaction and support the equal treatment of all individuals. We recognize the inherent value and worth of all human beings; everyone is born with it.