I thought about this some more last night. Responsibility is a big part of any honor code. Self accountability.
I'd like to explore this a little bit in the area of freedom. When one acts responsibly and with integrity, doors open that might otherwise be closed. This can apply to teams and individuals. We've had students on our team who have been encouraged to explore innovative ideas and develop their roles as student leaders or grow into them - because of their actions. We are also a team that we hope can be counted on to support and to help because of our actions and the reputation they have established.
Within any honor code is the opportunity to develop and grow. This might bring added responsibilities but it also brings added opportunities and freedom based on trust. When the trust is established then risk can also be explored in areas of development and innovation. Freedom with responsibility.
The opposite happens when the code of honor is broken, ignored, disrespected. Distrust sets in and irresponsibility removes the opportunity for freedom to explore and develop.
These were some of the thoughts I had last night.
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Excellence is contagious. ~ Andy Baker, President, AndyMark, Inc. and Woodie Flowers Award 2003
Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.
~ Helen Keller (1880-1968)