Shining the spotlight on integrity

How do we define integrity? Structural integrity in a building project refers to the structure's soundness, which ensures long-term stability and safety requirements. In a medical context, structural integrity refers to the soundness of the body's functionality to maintain strength and stability under all conditions. 

A person’s integrity refers to soundness of moral character, which is demonstrated in actions, honesty and trustworthiness. Having the strength of integrity is always in alignment with principles and values, even when it may be inconvenient or challenging. People of integrity do not compromise when feeling pressured by others to do so.

Soundness in structural or moral integrity ensures maintaining functionality, reliability, strength and stability, even under stress and strain.

The concept of integrity has its origin in an ancient Roman military tradition - it was a ritual of daily inspections to assess the character and armour of soldiers.  As the inspecting centurion came in front of each legionnaire, the soldier would strike with his right fist the breastplate armour and shout “Integritas!” This was a declaration of their readiness for battle - the Latin word integritas means “material wholeness, completeness, and entirety”.  The breastplate armour had to be strong to protect the heart from sword thrusts and arrow strikes, and the inspecting centurion would listen for the ring that well-kept armour would give off.

Integrity is about strong core values and ensuring our life principles and moral character remain intact. The word integer - meaning "whole" or "intact” - also originated from the Latin word integritas. As a mathematical term, an integer represents a whole number without a fractional or decimal part. A person with integrity is not fragmented or divided in their values - their character represents wholesomeness and honesty in all areas.

Living with integrity requires a clear understanding of our values, beliefs and principles to maintain consistency with our decisions and actions. When a spotlight highlights the integrity of our character, what is revealed is how we present ourselves to others and the world. How do you want to be seen?

We can regularly check for the ring sound of well-kept armour, shielding our hearts and ensuring our integrity is intact.

Trish