Paul, the leader of his school’s quiz team, had led them to numerous victories. However, during the final leg of the National Junior Schools Quiz Competition, Paul’s integrity was put to the test.
When asked to spell “AUDITORIUM,” Paul noticed that the answer was conveniently pasted on the microphone before him. Despite the temptation to win, Paul chose not to answer, citing that it would be cheating. Paul raised his hand and said, “Sorry sir, but the word is pasted on this microphone, and it would be Cheating if I answered it”.Paul was then given a tougher question and he couldn’t spell correctly.
Paul’s decision led to his school losing the competition. Many viewers and his schoolmates criticized him, labeling him “stupid” and “brainwashed” for prioritizing honesty over victory.
However, Paul’s parents welcomed him home with pride, commending his integrity and moral courage. Their reaction highlights the importance of values and principles over external validation or success.
Morality is a Private and Costly Luxury”.*
Next day in school when the Principal called out the Quiz team in the Assembly hall, it was Booos and curses for Paul by the students.*
Then the Principal spoke. “It’s a Sad thing that we Lost at the Quiz, but I’m Very Proud that Paul is a student of this school and would want all of you to Emulate him If you Ever find yourself in same situation.*
Winning the Competition would have brought us honor, but for how long will people remember that? What Paul did, however, will be a subject for discussion for a long time and it will always bring Glory to this school”.
A standing Ovation for Paul followed the Principal’s speech!
Two days later, one of the national dailies reporting the story on it’s Front page with Paul’s picture captioned it, “BEHOLD, THE HOPE OF OUR NATION!”
The chairman of one of the biggest banks in the country, an old student of the school, read the story and came calling a week later with a fat cheque and scholarship for Paul.
He also endowed an annual prize in his name for the Most Honest Student in the school.
When we do what is RIGHT, we Gain the Lord’s Approval, even IF the whole world condemns us… because there are times when the TRUTH will cost us more than a LIE, or even Cost us our Popularity or Success.
Moral of the Story.
1.Integrity Over Victory : Paul’s decision demonstrates that honesty and integrity are essential values to uphold, even in the face of adversity.
- Critical Thinking and Ethical Decision-Making: Paul’s choice showcases the importance of critical thinking and ethical decision-making in everyday life.
- Standing Up for What is Right : Paul’s story encourages us to stand up for what is right, even if it means going against the crowd or facing criticism.
To my fellow Comrades and friends, I say, Never be afraid to Stand for the Truth, even when it looks like you’re Standing Alone. U can CHOOSE to be the HOPE of this present Decadent society where Morality and Good Conscience is gradually becoming Extinct in Business and Governance.
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