It is not what we do that defines us, it is who we are that defines what we do.

I remember a time when the work and effort that was put into a project or job held value. Perhaps it was a value shared up to a generation ago, or perhaps it was how I was raised? I know I am not the only one who thinks this way though. The more I talk to people, I mean really talk, not small talk, but deep conversation about what matters in life and the realities of our world and its current situation, I am encouraged by the desire and longing for this mindset of "integrity" to return.
Just today, I spoke with a dear friend and wonderful creator of a product know as "Soundseat". JR Baker and Jack Bertron built their company on a dream and vision JR held, and the belief and commitment of Jack. Not only are they both men who embody the word "Integrity", but they offer a product that has integrity. JR and I have conversation regularly on the topic of Integrity and the lack of or surprising encounter with it. It is what we challenge ourselves daily to achieve as business owners, fathers, husbands, and friends. Before I go further, let's briefly look at the word.
Integrity. Wikipedia defines it like this; Integrity is consistency of actions, values, methods, measures, principles, expectations and outcome. As a holistic concept, it judges the quality of a system in terms of its ability to achieve its own goals. The ethical concept of integrity is that of basing of one's actions on a consistent framework of principles.
Based on this definition and my understanding of the word, this is why I not only use it to describe the character of a woman or man, but I will also judge a product by it.
But getting back to my conversation with JR, he was telling me of a comment on a popular forum by an individual who made the claim, "anyone who is in business is not to be trusted." We were both a bit taken back by the statement and it was obvious this individual has had poor encounters in life and apparently with every business he deals with, but it got me thinking of how many of us may feel like this at any given time. I am someone who tries to support small business and think better of people, but the reality is that there are few companies or individuals who strive to achieve greatness in what they are doing or selling. We will tip any server regardless of the service, but tip more for excellent service when in reality we should be receiving excellent service.
Many of us are afraid at times to have a high expectation or speak out for what we are paying for and this is not a matter of us "deserving better", I think it is more about us wanting to see passion and drive and desire in the world. I am not mad because my food order is not correct, I'm upset at the apathy the server has that it was not done well.
Please don't misunderstand what I am trying to say, this is not about the lack good service in business or my frustration with the world's work force. I don't get frustrated or spend much time thinking about those things to be quite honest. This is about a vast majority of people who have lost the desire and passion to have or see greatness. It matters little of what the product is; a hamburger, and mowed lawn, a painting or even a guitar. I want to be joined with the individuals who put their all into what they do. It is not what we do that defines us, it is who we are that defines what we do.
I will leave it at this for now, it is late and I am hoping to use this to begin a discussion with those who are like-minded. I leave you with a video I enjoyed and hope you will as well. Click here for Video and Thank you!

-Manuel