Integrity....

How would you define the word?  Webster's New World Dictionary defines the word as "the quality of state of being of sound moral principle".  Some synonyms are uprightness, honesty, sincerity, trustworthiness, faithfulness, justness, courage, principled.   We would also recognize that a person with integrity has good character, and character can be defined as what you do when no one else is around.

Thomas Jefferson personifies the word.

The Real Thomas Jefferson by Andrew M. Allison chronicles the life of Thomas Jefferson.  The author has chosen to allow Jefferson's own words to speak for him.  The first part of the book is a carefully documented biographical sketch drawn chiefly from Jefferson's own writing.  The second part is in an encyclopedia format and includes quotes on various topics, events and people.

Jefferson lived a life based upon high standards and ideals.  I'm not saying the man was faultless.  We will never be able to create a utopia--perfect will have to wait for heaven; but if you are looking for a man who not only espoused high standards but also lived his life in accordance with them, then Jefferson is your man.

Over the course of his life Jefferson became proficient in areas such as architecture, horticulture, animal husbandry,  music and the law.  He held positions as husband, father, farmer, violinist, inventor, college president, statesman, diplomat, ambassador, secretary of state, president, advisor and prolific writer.

He was able to achieve all of these by being highly self-disciplined.  It was his habit to rise before the sun and his day was structured.  He spent at least two hours daily reading--not novels.  He involved himself in the running of the estate and often incorporated new farming techniques.  When Jefferson was running the estate, it made a profit.  He distinguished himself early in his law career and was easily elected to the state legislature.  Although initially unknown outside of Virginia, his abilities were quickly recognized while serving in the Continental Congress and were later called upon to write the Declaration of Independence.

This pattern of public service continued until his death.  When he was no longer in the public eye, he kept up correspondence with many key figures and was frequently called upon for advice.  For example, Jefferson was in France when the Constitution was written, but his signature runs throughout the document.  Madison relied heavily upon him.

There are two examples I consider very revealing.  The first occurred at Monticello.  A servant named John Hubbard had stolen some nails.  Jefferson dealt with the situation directly.  Upon seeing the great remorse of the man, for he was crying and asking forgiveness, Jefferson quickly said, "Ah, sir, we can't punish him.  He has suffered enough already."  Jefferson's kindness impacted the man greatly.  The servant considered it a display of true religion and the act encouraged him "to find religion" himself.

On another occasion his grandson recalls

            "His manners were of that polished school of the colonial government, so remarkable in its day-under no circumstances violating any of those minor conventional observances which constitute the well-bred gentleman, courteous and considerate to all persons.  On [my] riding out with him when a lad, we met  a Negro who bowed to us.  [My grandfather] returned his bow; I did not.  Turning to me he asked, "do you permit a Negro to be more of a gentleman that yourself?"

These events were private, and since character is revealed when no one else is around--they speak volumes.

In stepping out of the way and allowing Jefferson to speak for himself, the author has given the reader the chance to know Jefferson the person and to draw your own conclusions regarding him.  This book is a great place to begin learning about Thomas Jefferson.

 Guest Posted By Momma...