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Integrity
is standing up
for what
you believe in.

It is treating everyone
equally and fairly,
acting independent
of people*
that do otherwise.

It is being
open and honest,
responsible for
all of your actions.

It is speaking out
when others
are treated poorly.

It is refusing
to participate
in actions
detrimental to others.

It is admitting
and apologising
for your errors,
when mistakes
are made.

It is respecting
your environment,
your fellow humans,
and your self.

Integrity
is not only**
a characteristic,
it is
a way of life.

It is
what you do,
and what you say,
always.

It sets you
apart from others,
it defines you
as a person.

Treat others,
as you would want,
to be treated.

Be upstanding,
be forthright,
be conscious,
of your actions.

Remember,
to always act
with integrity.

© Gary Dodd 2003

* This word was previously "others"
and has been changed by Gary.
** This word ("only") has been added by Gary.
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Background

There have been numerous searches
on the Internet,
asking what this poem is about,
or something similar.

This poem was written on 13 May 2003,
while Gary was living overseas.

It reflects on
his life experiences
and how he was feeling
at the time.

It is also about
where he was living,
and other events
that were happening
in our world.

It was his attempt at asking
all of us,
including himself,
to think about who we are,
where we are going,
and more importantly,
how we are acting.

The poem was first published in September 2003
in Gary's first book titled "A nod and a smile."

Gary then included the poem
in his second book about values,
titled "The Little Book of Values" in 2008.

Gary published a smaller version
of his first book in 2010,
which included the poem.

Finally, due to its relative popularity,
Gary chose to include the poem
in his 13-volume collection of poems
titled "The Definitive Collection."

It is hoped
that this information
may assist
anyone seeking
some background information
on what inspired Gary,
to write this poem.

Thank you.

Gary Dodd 2012

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