I guess this is more for the young as oppose to seniors since I think seniors already know it.  If not, it's probably is too late for them to do anything about it anyway.

 

There is one thing you can give that is more important that any gift - more important than a diamond ring, a Rolex watch or a new car. It is also the one thing that you can give that can be taken back with almost no effort.  It is the one thing you have to keep when you give it.   It is so easy to give and yet so hard to keep.   What is this thing more important that any gift?  It is your word.

 

It is the one thing that defines you and your reputation.  It isn't made of material but rather by your ethics, morals and honesty.  More than anything else, it is the thing by which people judge you.  There are so many excuses to not live up to your word but only one reason to keep it - that is because it is the essence of who you are. 

 

Whenever we don't keep our word we try to justify why.  There are lots of excuses why people don't keep their word.  They claim circumstances changed, too much time has gone by or they forgot they gave their word.  They are but excuses.  Short of being on your sick or death bed, there is no reason for failing to live up to your word.  As for the idea that you gave your word to give someone money but no longer have it, it merely suggests that money is a fleeting thing and should never be associated with your word.

 

The problem is too many people think keeping their word isn't that important.   That is a reflection of their self-worth.  It is the most important thing you can give, so one needs to be judicious in giving it.  Whether it is a promise to a friend or a promise to love, honor and obey, it is a commitment that you should be prepared to fulfill.

 

So, before you give your word, think twice.  It isn't a promise you are putting on the line - it's you.