From Roots to Fruits.

Sekadar ingin berkongsi tentang apa yang dibaca sewaktu mengisi masa lapang di Perpustakaan Desa Daerah Jempol pada Sabtu 30 May 2009 (11.45 am) sambil menemankan anak-anak yang sedang leka melengkapkan buku NILAM masing-masing.

"INTEGRITY".
Integrity is like a mighty tree that stands out in the forests. Its roots are deep, supporting a tall and hardy trunk, and its top is a crown of branches and green leaves. It blooms with large clusters of fruit in brilliant colours, ripe and ready to scatter its seeds. Birds and other animals find comfort perching on its secure branchers.

A person of integrity stands tall like this tree. Deeply rooted in good values, such a person does not bow to the pressures of this world. A strong character nurtured with good principles, and a conviction to do the right thing makes him stable and secure in the throes of difficult circumstances. He produces good fruit in all aspects of his life. He impacts his family, community and society by his exemplary actions. The good fruits spread seeds of integrity-giving life to more trees of this nature.

So we human being are just like the trees - The tree of Integriry.

Seeds of Integrity - What is integrity?
1. A community that cares - working together
2. Families that love - good values are modelled and practised, communicate well, work
together, support each other and show love.
3. Systems that function - public systems and structures in place which facilitate good living,
promote health , increase efficiency and promote a better quality of life.

Weeds of Integrity - How is integrity lost?
1. Abuse of power - when people in power abuse it integrity is lost. How? By giving and
accepting bribes, unlawful demand and when values and principles are sidelined in decision
makingprocess.
2. Bad Ethics - when people do not take responsibility for their actions.
3. Weak Systems - when service providers and businesses do not value their customers' well-
being but work for their own gain.
4. Lack of Concern - when citizens fail to care for others. Rules not obeyed and common sense
is not practised.

How can I nurture my Tree of Integrity?
Some tips:-

1. One with your creater - good religious upbringing. Know God
2. Inculcate Noble Values - good values are priceless.
3. Self Discipline - discipline sounds harsh but its fruits are sweet. It enable you to enjoy life
by living in moderation.
4. Selflessness - putting others' needs before yours is an act of selflessness. When each
citizen decides to live unselfishly, mutual respect and genuine concern begin to grow.
5. Honesty and transparency - admits your faults when wrong is committed. Honesty
enables people to trust you.
6. Trustworthiness - responsible people are trustworthy people.
7. Wisdom and Fairness - wisdom helps you to be discerning in all matters.
8. Gratitude - say Thank you.
9. Quality Time with family - make time for your family. Time spent together as a family
will help build strong values and good character.
10. Treat your children fairly - reward your children for good deeds and behaviour, but
do not fail to correct them when they make mistakes.
11. Care for the elderly - care for your elders by showing love, respect and appreciation.
12. Know your neighbour

Semoga apa yang disenaraikan di atas mampu dijadikan panduan dalam menjadikan kita INSAN yang lebih berintegriti dalam menjalankan setiap tugasan yang telah diamanahkan kepada kita. Pemimpin yang sebenarnya ialah mereka yang mempunyai 'integriti' yang tinggi dan dihormati tanpa perlu bermuka-muka.