The gift of Integrity

 

~ Integrity simply means not violating one's own identity. ~ Erich Fromm

I want to thank the latest teacher in my life. This teacher at first seemed to be a creepy voyeur who was violating my very soul by mimicking – however poorly – most of those things that I have worked all my life to fulfill and make my own. I noticed by mere glances the similarity in her efforts, without as much as “hmmmm…that’s weird” sort of reaction. It wasn’t until total strangers began noticing her weak efforts to mimic my imagery, my sense of humor, my business idea and my latest venture to further my education and career that I became alarmed and frankly deeply disturbed. A few people have warned me about the “Single White Female” movie and laughed at the possible Hollywood movie script to come.

What I have come to realize is that she has given me a gift – the gift of reminding me of the importance of integrity. Each of us has our own strengths and histories. What we bring to the table, to our relationships and communities is a result of that unique experience. I know who I am. I know my weaknesses and I know and am learning to embrace my strengths. I have compassion for this individual who does not yet seem to have this sense of herself; to be able to stand in a truth that is not harmful or hateful or desperate. I hold out hope that she will find a truth that she can call her own, to not have to borrow someone else’s and to stand in pride of her unique gifts.