Integrity

Integrity by definition means steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code (thefreedictionary.com). So it means to live with integrity you must maintain a strict moral code. In our family, we believe that moral code comes from God. The Holy Spirit will direct your heart and give you an internal moral compass. So what does it look like to live with integrity?

A friend was offered a job with an outrageous salary, excellent benefits, and a sizeable bonus. The position itself was also desirable. Head of the department reporting directly to the CIO. He would have two directors reporting into him both in charge of 40 person teams. Seems like a dream job if you just look at the financial package and the position. He turned it down on integrity. The company made it's money in the title loan business. True the company does serve a purpose, but at what cost? Are they making money by praying on the financially unstable or the financially ignorant? If you google the list of complaints, it becomes obvious that the company is making money on the less fortunate and quite possibly, knowingly pushing them into more desperate circumstances. Living with integrity definitely involves being able to sleep at night with a clear conscience.

The bathroom remodeling continues in full swing. The tile guys were here today putting up greenboard on the walls and backer board on the floor. It looks so different with the shiny new tub and solid walls. They said they would be finished by the end of the week. If only the sink cabinet wasn't going to take 3 more weeks.

I also had a visit from Juan the Painter. I could tell that he was the painter by the paint splattered all across his face like so many white freckles. I don't believe he understand very many words that I said, but he was very pleasant and agreeable. I kept telling him that the walls would be different and there would be another room off the back but I don't think he understood. He just kept moving and asking questions..."you want ceiling paint? I paint trim? Deez cabinets too? Ok, I go outside now". Juan the Painter will be very surprised when he returns to paint the house.

What was for dinner tonight? Cantonese grilled pork (Cooking Light), green beans, ciabatta, and a salad with honey lemon vinaigrette. For dessert...Crispy Creme...every now and again it's ok:-)

Our Favorite Sauteed Green Beans
Steam fresh green beans (we get ours from the local farmer's market)
Saute garlic and 1 tbsp. olive oil in a nonstick pan. Add steamed green beans, Italian Seasoning, pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Stir to coat and serve. You can add steamed red potatoes or yellow squash to the mix and it's good too.