Reputation

by Maria Corse

Your reputation, in the end, is all you have. The dollars in your pocket and the property you acquired are incidental, because your epitaph will ultimately be measured by the kindnesses you offered and the promises you kept throughout your lifetime.
 
Most of us have a personal code of ethics based on our morals and values, which were either handed to us as a set of strict rules and beliefs during our childhood and/or developed over time through inquiry and exposure to differing ideologies.
 
The same principle can be applied to organizations, which have guiding doctrines including mission and vision statements.
 
During moments of intensity, it is, often-times, our interpretation of those fundamental concepts, both personally and organizationally, that get muddled, which then, allows our morals to get high-jacked in the name of progress, because our focus was shifted during the immediate crisis.
 
This scenario happens way more than we would like to imagine or believe. I made a decision last week in response to an emotionally charged situation that was based predominately on ease, and, financial realities, rather than philosophy. That choice, while small (in the context of things) and not horribly devastating, now influences one person's expectations of Deep Root Center and me and will require an uncomfortable conversation to reverse.
 
Every time a person or organization makes decisions that change (by degree) their underlying philosophy, based solely on another person's expectations, influence, or requests (as innocuous as they may seem at the time) they are in some small way compromising their integrity.
 
Paul Smith's College in the Adirondack Mountains entertained a defining moment last year when a wealthy donor offered an immense amount of money with the condition that the name of the college be changed to include hers. Happily, the Trustees heard, and, more importantly, listened to the tremendous outcry from hundreds of alumni and declined the generous “gift”.
 
Let me be perfectly clear. I am promoting neither stagnation nor inflexibility ---- change is good, exploration of new ideas is essential to learning and growth. Alterations to ideology, however, should be made consciously, thoughtfully, and deliberately with intentions that enhance personal or organizational positive impact.
 
Integrity is not a commodity that can be bought and sold. It can only be earned through dedication to conducting consistently good work (and owning your mistakes).

DRC NEWS

Canton Village Garage Sales
August 13th, 9-2


DRC will be participating in this event this year. We will have a table in front of our building with craft and other items for sale. The DRC facilities will be open for tours. Maria and several board members will be available to answer any questions you have about our programs.


If you have crafts or used (in good condition) items you would like to donate, please bring them to DRC anytime during business hours (9-5) this week.

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