How often do we make commitments? How seriously do we take those commitments? If we cannot keep a commitment that we make to ourselves, we probably cannot keep a commitment with another. How often do we make empty promises to someone because we believe this is what they want to hear? Breaking a promise is the same as lying. Some people are okay with telling little white lies, but a lie is a lie no matter what color you make it. A lie told to another is first a lie we tell ourselves. A promise that is broken weakens our credibility with others, but sabotages our own integrity.
Most people in the world, at some point or another, will marry. Marriage is a commitment and one that is most often broken. Some are able to forgive a small infidelity, but the trust is forever broken and the love that once brightened their world, is tarnished. When I was going through a divorce from my first husband and I called him out about the affair he was having, he retorted, “Don’t judge me!” Really? In my mind, commitment is my word. If I remain devoted to my relationship, I have every right to expect the same level of honesty from my partner – no excuses!
While I have learned the painful lesson, from the men I have known who did not take their commitments as seriously as I had taken my own, I still believe that my own promises to myself are a reflection of who I am. I do not recall the exact date, but one day this past fall I decided that I would begin an exercise regime before my breakfast each morning. Regardless how hungry or tired I am, I will not eat until I have completed the routine. Nine months ago I began writing this blog. I post it every Monday through Friday before noon. I do this before anything else that I have planned for the day. These are small acts of faith, but they nourish my soul in a way that I would hope to be nourished if I were in a committed relationship. It is unlikely that I will find a true companion with a loyal heart, at this time in my life, so I will continue to honor myself each and every day in small promises I make to myself.
