I-N-T-E-G-R-I-T-Y–Character Trait of November
Posted by lindamartinandersen on November 9, 2012
“I-N-T-E-G-R-I-T-Y–Character Trait of November” by Linda Martin Andersen
“A Writer’s Playground”
A place to find wordplay, writing, and monthly calendar activities for kids and those young at heart.
November–a month for more than talk about turkeys…
When I was an elementary School Counselor in Cumberland County, NC, students studied character traits each month. Now, I have found another way to spread the word about good character. I volunteer once a month for story time at a home school bookstore in my area. Check it out at www.thepilgrimsjourney.com.
This month, like the Cumberland County Schools in Fayetteville, NC, I presented the character trait of INTEGRITY. It’s defined as “Doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
At Story Time, I read The Empty Pot by Demi. A discussion of honesty and integrity followed, along with an optional art activity. I hope you’ll locate a copy of this book and share it with a special child in your life. Consider planting a seed in a pot after the reading. It will lead to future discussions about Ping’s actions and personal examples of integrity.
If you are interested in learning about other book titles by this author, visit this site: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/Demi/707558/books
I’d love to hear ways you show integrity. Please leave a comment below. Thank you for joining us at “A Writer’s Playground.” Come again soon and bring a friend.
Coming soon: Two guests bloggers: One is a storyteller and author. The other is a pilot and author. I hope you’ll meet them.
Copyright © 2012 Linda Martin Andersen
A Writer's Playground 
Joan Y. Edwards said
Dear Linda,
Thanks for spotlighting character traits. I believe that Integrity is very essential for success and self-esteem.
Enjoy your day.
Never Give Up
Joan Y. Edwards
lindamartinandersen said
Joan,
I love the definition given for integrity: doing the right thing even when no one is watching. I think it makes the meaning crystal clear. I enjoy offering a story time each month that spotlights a character trait. You’re welcome for this collection of posts. Thank you for being such a loyal friend and follower. I appreciate you very much.
Tracy Campbell said
Hi Linda,
I’m so glad I asked you about receiving your posts. I don’t want to miss one.
And I’m so glad you’ve addressed integrity. I believe I’m a person of integrity and I always hope those I meet have integrity too! Although we’ve not met in person, it’s apparent from reading the topics on your blog…you are a person of integrity!
I’m going to try and sign-up again as I didn’t receive this post in my inbox. 🙂
Ah, I just clicked the bottom box to receive your posts by email. Perhaps I didn’t do that the last time. Mystery solved. LOL
lindamartinandersen said
Tracy,
Thanks for being so loyal and determined not to miss a post. Lucky me. I appreciate the compliment about me having integrity. It’s so important and I’m happy to be able to surround myself with people who think so too.
Tracy Campbell said
You’re very welcome!
maureen wartski said
Hi, Linda–
Integrity is the bedrock of life. It is what makes us often take the road less traveled by– it forces us to do what we feel is right. Once, I was asked what character trait I would like to ‘give’ my grand-children (you know, like the Good Fairy in the Sleeping Beauty story). I answered, “Balance…” but integrity is high up on the list, too!
lindamartinandersen said
Well said, Maureen. Balance and integrity are so necessary. I like your comparison–integrity is the bedrock of life. And where can I find one of those magic wands for ‘giving’ character traits?
susan Hornbach said
Sounds like a wonderful book with life lessons and an activity Linda, thanks for sharing.
lindamartinandersen said
Susan,
Thanks for commenting. There are a wealth of great books out there. Children today are fortunate to have so many to choose from. I know you have some titles for little ones coming out soon. What a terrific calling–writing for children.
Jean Hall said
Linda,
I’m enjoying your blog posts even though I don’t always comment. I remember when you started this blog with fear and trembling. Now it seems like you really are enjoying this aspect of your life.
Keep up the good work. Keep on doing what you do behind the scenes, too. Both are a living demonstration of your integrity.
Jean
lindamartinandersen said
Thanks for commenting, Jean. What a nice compliment! I had a small test of integrity recently. I passed it with flying colors; so I’d like to think I would pass a big test just as well. Behind the sceens work is important too, isn’t it?
Thanks for all you do for writers! You and your team inspire so many.
happyinhim said
Hi Linda,
I believe you are providing a valuable service with your blog. Teaching children character and integrity are a lost art these days. Everyone wants to build “self-esteem” but how about loving your neighbor as yourself? If I were a teacher, I would love to reference your blog for ideas. Well done!
lindamartinandersen said
Happyinhim,
Thank you so much for the compliment stating that this blog is a great reference tool! I hope teachers out there agree. Thanks also for noting the importance of character building and the positive influence teachers and other caring adults can have on a child’s life. You made my night!