Lessons from an Elevator: A Tale of Integrity

Dear friends, today I want to share a story from my past, a story that taught me a valuable lesson about integrity. It’s a tale that takes place in an unlikely setting – an elevator.

Getting Stuck in an Elevator

Many years ago, I found myself stuck in an elevator. It was a hot summer day, and the air conditioning in the old building was barely functional. The elevator was small, cramped, and the heat was stifling. I was not alone; there was another man with me, a stranger.

As the minutes turned into hours, we started to talk. The man was a janitor in the building, a humble, hardworking fellow. He told me about his life, his dreams, and his struggles.

The Test of Integrity

As we conversed, the janitor found a wallet on the elevator floor. It was filled with cash, credit cards, and an ID. The ID belonged to a man who worked in the same building, a man known for his wealth and arrogance.

The janitor looked at the wallet, then at me, and said, “This could solve a lot of my problems.” I could see the temptation in his eyes. But then, he sighed, put the wallet in his pocket, and said, “But it’s not mine. I’ll return it when we get out of here.”

The Lesson Learned

That day, stuck in an elevator, I learned a valuable lesson about integrity. Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. It’s about being honest and truthful, not because of what we can gain, but because it’s the right thing to do.

The janitor could have easily taken the money. No one would have known. But he chose to do the right thing. He chose integrity over temptation.

Friends, let’s strive to be like the janitor. Let’s choose integrity, even when it’s hard, even when no one is watching. Because in the end, our integrity defines who we are.

Until next time, remember: “Integrity is choosing your thoughts and actions based on values rather than personal gain.”

Stay strong, stay wise, and always hold onto your integrity.

Kev