I try to surround myself with people who follow through with what they say they will do; people who keep their word.  

“Let’s get together this summer,” is one of those catchphrases that make me smile.  When I hear myself speak those words I make a mental note that I best put something on our calendar regarding my suggestion.  I find it refreshing when someone follows through with their intention; I also find it a bit out of the norm.

Following through on your word shows commitment and dedication.  Being true to your word is important in every aspect of our lives.  How we follow through with our family, friends, co-workers, etc. is a clear indication of who we are and how we live our lives.     

As I go through the day with my family I find myself promising my assistance in a variety of avenues.  The important part is keeping those promises.  If I said I would help someone study for a test, did I make myself available at the appropriate time?  Was I home to drive them to their activity?  Did I allow them to do the things that I promised them?  As parents, we are an example to our children.  If we are not true to our word, they will likely follow the same pattern.  If we promise things to our spouse and do not follow through with the commitments, we damage our relationship and our trustworthiness.

Can you count on your friends?  Are they true to their word?  When I look at my circle of friends, I can rely on them.  My friends make me stronger because they follow through with what they say and encourage the same behavior from me.  

People are the most important part of the work environment for me.  As with my family and friends, I want to work with people who are true to their word.  I look for coworkers who illustrate good follow-through.  It reduces stress and creates an environment that cultivates a productive workplace.  

Despite the priority I place on being true to my word, I work at staying flexible for all of life’s challenges that arise.  Of course, there are emergencies, ever-changing event schedules for various family members, illnesses, etc.  These things can make it difficult or impossible to complete the promised task.  At this point, forgiveness becomes an important part of the plan.  Making sure family, friends, and co-workers understand and agree to the new plan.

It is very important to stand by your word, but it’s also important as a supporter of our families, friends, and co-workers to know that things change.  With proper communication, one can be true to their word while altering the situation or the task at hand.

It is my faith that guides me to have a strong commitment to staying true to my word.  One of the nicest compliments someone can give me is to say that I am a person of my word.  When I see my children hold true to their word, I know they are guided by their faith and example.

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