“Acknowledge, Obey, & Be Grateful”

“It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge, obey, and be grateful to Almighty God.”

George Washington, a figure of unparalleled respect and admiration, left an indelible mark with his leadership, vision, and steadfast principles. As the inaugural President of the United States and a pivotal figure in the nation’s birth, his words and deeds continue to shape our country’s ethos. His quote, a testament to his personal beliefs, echoes a guiding principle that resonates deeply within our Honor Bound tribe.

I said the quote resonates with OUR tribe. Unfortunately, it doesn’t resonate with all Americans. Harrison Butker recently expressed Christian views while giving a graduation speech at a Christian college, inciting outrage from non-Christian listeners, proving that acknowledging, obeying, and being grateful to God isn’t always easy, encouraged, or even tolerated.

Actions (and choices) have consequences. At Honor Bound FIT, we choose to live and proclaim our values loudly. We literally wear them on our backs. First and chief among them is our belief in, and obedience to, Almighty God.

America is often described as a tapestry woven with various cultures, beliefs, and backgrounds. While the necessary separation of church and state remains a cornerstone of the American Constitution, the acknowledgment of a shared moral compass can play a significant role in fostering a sense of commonality and dignity among Americans. This shared understanding has certainly fostered a sense of unity within the Honor Bound tribe.

Obedience to a higher moral standard is crucial for business leadership and ethical governance. Trust in our institutions has been shaken by scandals and partisan conflicts. We could restore faith in leadership by adhering to moral and ethical guidelines. Washington’s call to obey a higher authority underscores the importance of integrity, accountability, and transparency. Leaders who prioritize these values inspire confidence and foster trust, ensuring that their actions serve the best interests of those in their charge.

Gratitude, whether it be to God, or in any area of your life, is transformative. Dennis Prager says: “All happy people are grateful. Ungrateful people cannot be happy. We tend to think that being unhappy leads people to complain, but it’s truer to say that complaining leads to people becoming unhappy.” Feeling and expressing gratitude for our freedoms, opportunities, and blessings fosters a more positive and cohesive society. This sense of appreciation inspires acts of kindness, community service, and a willingness to support those in need.

When Keith and I first discussed my intent to cultivate a too-long list of Core Values for Honor Bound FIT, to shape and inform the decisions we make and the culture we create within our organization, I told him I intend to write at least one article for every value. When asked where I would find the time and inspiration for that much writing, I said: “I have no idea where I’ll find the time, but between the Disciples, the Stoics, and the Founding Fathers, I’m fairly certain I’ll have plenty of inspiration.” As we anticipate facing unknowable challenges, Washington’s timeless wisdom provides the first step in guiding us toward a brighter future.