Lillian Lincoln Lambert

No matter what you do, you must be able to live with yourself. If, early in your life, you establish the values by which you will live, this moral compass will direct you in whatever you do. Clearly define your values and commit to live by them

           My moral compass was established growing up on my family’s small farm. At that time, I did not appreciate the values my parents tried to instill in me. We did not have much in the way of material things but we had things that money could not buy, such as love, support and a faith in God. That training coupled with strong families who supported each other helped me develop a moral system that would direct my life.

            Knowing yourself is crucial as you are faced with ethical choices, as you communicate with others who have different ideas or even as you make day-to-day decisions. If you are clear about your own values, priorities and preferences and not let society or someone else define them for you, you can better articulate what you want and make better choices. Never compromise yourself or your values but maintain the highest standards of excellence and integrity. So cultivate a moral compass that not only protects your reputation but more important, protects your soul.

I had the opportunity to accept an engagement to speak at the Price Prather Luncheon for the Women in the Profession Committee of the Mississippi Bar Association. What a wonderful experience. From the moment I landed in Sandestin, Fl until I left I was treated like royalty.

My hostess met me at the airport and the first thing I noticed was her beautiful, broad smile. She then greeted me with a big hug.  Having grown up in the south, I know that is typical of southerners. It does not matter whether they have known you for some time or just meeting you, they want you to feel welcome. My, how the world could use more of that thinking!

In a room beautifully decorated in Tiffany (one of the sponsors) colors, after a tasty lunch I addressed about 80 female judges and lawyers (there were a few men scattered in the audience). They requested that I talk on the topic “The Road to Someplace Better”, which is the title of my recently released book. They wanted to know to what I attributed my level of success. Four traits were dominant: persistence, resilience, courage and a good moral compass.

A persistent person is able to continue toward a goal even in the face of opposition.  Determination is a trademark. Resilience is the ability to spring back. Plan but remain flexible: you may have to endure detours or develop a new way of thinking in order to achieve your goals. Sometimes you must be courageous enough to push yourself out of your comfort zone: be brave enough to do something that seems daring. Take calculated risk. Your moral compass will direct your life. Whatever you do in life, you must be able to live with yourself. Never  compromise  yourself  or  your  values  but  maintain  the  highest  standards  of  excellence  and  integrity. So cultivate a moral compass that protects not only your reputation, but most importantly protects your soul.