Why honesty is always the best policy. Most of us use lies from time to time to avoid difficult situations and hide our feelings or intentions. However lying always comes with a price whilst the truth is invaluable. … You will feel better about yourself if you are honest and open.
The world is fast changing. Life is becoming more and more complex. The emerging trends and cultures have come to govern the modern life. And the traditional values and beliefs are slowly vanishing.
Despite the amazing changes the age–old evils of society remain. Millions are still deprived of their basic needs. The gap between the rich and poor still continue to widen. Rape, violence, corruption and conflicts based on race, religion, region etc are rampant. There is lot of hypocrisy in our talks about justice, liberty, equality and human rights.
Despite all this, there is no reason for us to despair if we are prepared to take a stand. The change should start with each one of us. We need to be free, first of all, from corrupt practices, underhand dealings, and unjust behaviors. This of course poses a challenge – a challenge to live as honest citizens of the world. When we develop a clear conscience and live accordingly, we become agents of change in our society.
It is therefore, the responsibility and duty of each and every Rotarian on this earth to study his/her own personal business and see that every Rotarian conducts it according to the highest code of standards of practice in his / her relations with his/her employees, with those from whom he/she buys, with those to whom he/she sells, with his/her competitor, with the public or the Government.
Rotary Clubs should encourage the potential of their weekly meetings as a forum for discussion of the ethical concerns, which all the business people face today. We need to exert greater leadership in our professional and trade associations to maintain and enforce codes of correct practices. Rotarians must go out to work for high ethical standards in all forums of human endeavor. Rotarians must put all efforts to spread the message that honesty is still the best policy. Let the Rotarians work to restore proper ethics to every day dealings and never be afraid to be Honest and live Honorably before every one. Always remember with Honesty your Character will last long after you are gone.
Ashok Mahajan