Today I exchanged a propane tank at Home Depot which cost me about $18. When I went to make the automated exchange two doors opened both with full tanks. There was no supervision and it would have been very easy to have taken both and have gotten a “two-fer” without anyone knowing. Well, the problem was that as stood there in that pinnacle moment (and candidly thought about taking both and giving one to my father-in-law to use) I realized that I would know and that I had basically just taken something that wasn’t mine to take. So, it didn’t take me long to determine that my integrity is worth a hell of a lot more than $18. It’s not much but isn’t it the little things in life where the grey line exists? This is what I believe the Code of the West is all about; honor, truthfulness and integrity. This country just might stand a chance of surviving if more of us chose to live by this code or any manner of principles that sadly may be deemed “old-fashioned” in this day and age.
I don’t care that it’s “that time of the year” when we’re supposed to be more charitable, thoughtful or good. This is a decision that should be made everyday all year long. However, perhaps since folks get all giddy (and nuts) during the next month or so, I ask you, “how much is your integrity worth?” Share your story or ideas with your social network and hopefully it will prompt some sanity and goodwill amongst your fellow man and most importantly yourself.
Jon Stone Goff
President
Remuda Financial, Inc.
Raising prosperity in the American cattle industry one cowboy at a time.
