In the fourth article in the series of “Catalytic Leadership”, we will continue about “Integrity”
And the story!
Once a thief was convicted before a court of law for robbing at many places including banks and private properties. He was elusive for a very long time but was caught red-handed once.
He was proven to be guilty of his crime and the judge pronounced the verdict that he be sent to jail for 15 years.
Before closing the case, the judge asked the thief, if he would like to tell anything.
The thief said that he would like to tell some personal secret to his mother. The judge said he can tell the secret to his mother, but has to be done here, right now before leaving. His mother being present there, was brought near him.
The thief went near his mother slapped her repeatedly in anger. The mother cried out in pain. The police rushed and pulled the old lady back from the thief.
The judge was shocked at what the thief did. He condemned the act and asked the thief on why he did such an act.
The thief felt sad and replied, “The reason for me getting imprisonment now, for 15 years, was because of her.”
The thief paused for a moment and went on, “I lost my father when I was young and it was my mother who raised me. When I was in school, I once stole a pencil from my friend. I brought it to her and showed her the stolen pencil”
The thief continued, “She felt happy and was proud of my act then. Instead of scolding or telling me that it was wrong to steal, she encouraged those petty thefts, because it saved her money. Had she corrected me at that time saying that stealing was wrong, I would not have become a big thief now and would have led a different life”
The thief felt remorse and left the court to undergo the jail sentence.
Like a child that looks up to its parents for guidance, employees look up to their leaders to guide them on the correct path in their career and life.
Catalytic leaders, ensure that the trait of integrity is not kept within themselves but pass it on to the people around. They spread the aura of integrity wherever they go!
Image Credits: Pixabay