An Act of Integrity

"Integrity: the quality or state of being complete or undivided." — Merriam-Webster Dictionary

Being true to one's self...
Is an act of integrity

No longer relying on outward appearances
At peace internally, aligned externally

Narrowly avoiding...
The Weight of Expectation:

Obligation
Compulsion
Responsibility

Calm outside
Terrified inside

Harried
Hounded
Pressed

Carrying the world
Must not waver

Trapped
Shackled
Imprisoned

A caged bird
Never knowing flight

Pulled
Strained
Stretched

Close to the brink
Testament to strength

Lost
Unaware
Unfulfilled

No knowledge of self
Defined by others

Unsung
Unnoticed
Unrewarded

Taken for granted
While others prosper

Split
Divided
Fractured

Succumb to crushing burdens
Pieces in every direction

Falling, falling, falling...
Into the abyss

One and all but most of all
The one who lacked integrity

Food for Thought

Are you being true to yourself?

Are you whole and undivided?

Or do you lack integrity?

One Small Step

We often bear the weight of others out of obligation, duty or expectation. We think we do them a great service. But the truth is this: anything less than being our best selves is a disservice to them and to us. Becoming whole starts with this awareness.