Trustworthy-The first principle of the Scout law. I think it’s first because this is the foundation of everything in life. If you don’t have this, or aren’t able to build it, or worse yet, destroy it…you will lose everything.

A Scout is taught to tell the truth. Especially when it’s hard.

A Scout is taught to keep his promises. Even if they seem small or insignificant to him, his ability to keep his promises builds the foundation of trust between him and others.

A Scout learns that being dependable is the backbone for any relationship you forge in this life, and being trustworthy and dependable go hand in hand.

My reflection 20 years later:

Being trustworthy means everything. As we get older, we form and solidify relationships of all kinds, ranging from our friends, our family, our partner or our co-workers and clients. It takes repeated and consistent behavior to prove to these people that we’re trustworthy. It takes one solitary moment to destroy it all. Unlike when you’re a child, people aren’t as quick to forgive or move beyond transgressions. They’re more likely to dismiss you and move on to the next person.

For me, I pride myself in being trustworthy and dependable. It’s a matter of honor, and it’s very important to me. Especially as a teacher, its crucial to me that my students trust me, and that they know they can come to me with any issue, and I’ll find a way to make it right, or help them solve their problem. I want them to know they can trust me and I’ll always be their advocate. As a result, I like to think I have the reputation with my students that they can trust me with anything, and come to me when they may be uncomfortable going elsewhere.

For me, it doesn’t get better than that. I work hard constantly proving to my students (and others) that I respect them and our relationship enough that I will keep my promises, be honest with them even when it’s hard, and be there for them when they need me.

I don’t see enough of that these days. Sometimes it seems that people are out for themselves, they have an agenda, or even worse…that they are looking for dirt on you to use and manipulate. These are the people you want to avoid at all costs. They are a cancer, and you have to cut it out, or it will kill you.

Being trustworthy is paramount to being successful in this life. If you are considered trustworthy, doors will open for you. The Boy Scouts realized this, which is why it was the #1 principle in the Scout law.