A world so lacking in integrity begs the question…where do children learn integrity? Well, the obvious answer is from their parents. And this can definitely be even more challenging for children coming from the backgrounds of abuse, trauma and neglect.

Integrity is deeply rooted in respect – of others and of ourselves. And in order to learn respect a child must have received respect. Therein lies the breakdown for our traumatized children. Their wounded souls have been deeply disrespected. Their trust has been broken. Restoring their self-image... more

The major life lesson for me over the last year or two has been one of Integrity. What is Integrity? Dictionary.com defines it as:

adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty.

Simple in definition; complex in application. Yet, my life lesson has been to learn that the world is sorely lacking in integrity and if there is one gift I can give to my children…the ones with special needs included…it is to teach integrity.

I... more