Things that matter

If nothing else, I think this would be a good time for everyone to assess just what matters to them. What's important? It's the start of a new year, but more than that, I would like to see a change in America and how to behave as human beings.

As I was thinking about this, some things that matter to me are...

• honesty
• integrity
  
• character

And certainly Black Lives Matter, as well as brown, white, yellow, blue (though there's a big difference in listing each than in saying "All Lives Matter"... which is insulting).

Anywho... it reminded me of the core values listed at my workplace (the Y). I think it's a GREAT list. Unfortunately, at least on my level in the workforce, no one ever mentions them. Even now. Holy cow, what a great time to reinforce and remind people of this!

So, maybe it's just a reminder for me, but I'd like to keep these before me at this precarious time in history. I'd imagine lesser things have changed the world. Just think if I (or you) could live this way even 1% more than I/we have been... (btw, these are supposedly taken from Scripture)...

The Four Core Values are:

•  RESPECT (hold people and the environment in high regard)
• Honor yourself and others
• Accept differences and meet people where they are
• Be thoughtful with your words and actions
• Show the courage to stand up for what is right

• RESPONSIBILITY (lead with your words, actions and attitude)
• Empower others to grow and develop
• Do what you say you're going to do
• Be a good steward of resources
• Take ownership of your decisions

• HONESTY (be truthful in words and actions)
• Do the right thing, even when no one is looking
• Communicate in a fair manner
• Be fair and transparent
• Be authentic

• CARING (love your neighbor as yourself)  
• Show kindness and compassion
• Put others first
• Be complimentary and affirming when celebrating others
• Show a genuine interest in others
• Engage others with a positive attitude

 ***

Matthew 7:12

“Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s Law and Prophets and this is what you get."