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Self-Respect, Dignity, Pride & Integrity

 

“He died with dignity.”

This is an oft-quoted phrase when a person passes away.  I have been thinking a lot recently about the concept of living with dignity. 

 

The Oxford Dictionary defines the following terms:

Dignity is defined as:

The state or quality of being worthy of honour or respect.  A sense of pride in oneself; self-respect.

 

Self-respect is defined as:

Pride and confidence in oneself; a feeling that one is behaving with honour and dignity.

 

Pride is defined in this context as:

Consciousness of one’s own dignity.

 

Integrity is defined as:

The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.

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I invite people to reflect on the concepts of self-respect, dignity, pride and integrity. 

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

 

• What is my attitude toward this life I have?
• How do I behave toward others during the day?
• Am I acting in a way that is worthy of respect?
• Do I take pride in how I take care of myself?
• Do I respect how I treat people?
• Do I honor my ancestors by how I take care of myself?
• Do I show self-respect and respect for others that is healthy modeling for my children and for my community?
• Do I bring an attitude of respect toward my own life and the lives of others?
• Am I sloppy with my words and actions or am I thoughtful to take care of what I say to others?
• Do I recognize that everything I do has an impact on others?  And do I care about that?
• Am I aware of the fact that living my life isn’t only about meeting my needs, but taking care of the needs of others?
• Do I value living my life in a dignified, honest way?

I invite you to reflect on these questions – perhaps do some writing and add to this list as well.  Be mindful during the course of each day of the above questions.

Barbara