This source reminds me of times when my school or community felt tense or divided, such as during significant world events or local conflicts. People came in carrying their stress, and you could feel it in the hallways and classrooms. It brings to mind teachers who clearly communicated that disrespect, bullying, and discrimination were unacceptable and who treated everyone’s voice as necessary. Even when everything outside felt chaotic, their consistency and fairness made me feel like I still mattered and had a place.

This text reminds me of To Kill a Mockingbird, where Atticus Finch acts as a moral lighthouse in a world full of prejudice and fear. Like the author here, that book shows how authentic leadership means standing for what is right even when it’s unpopular. It’s similar to other texts I’ve read on integrity and character, such as Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches that highlight justice, dignity, and equality. However, this passage differs in that it focuses specifically on everyday workplaces and emphasizes that everyone can be an ethical leader, not just famous figures or those with official titles.

This passage connects strongly to current events, such as polarization, social injustice, and anxiety about the future. It reminds me of news stories about companies and organizations trying to create more inclusive and respectful environments, especially after incidents of discrimination or harassment. Just like the text says, people look to leaders to say, “This is wrong and will not be tolerated.” The events in this text are similar to the real world because people everywhere are seeking stability and meaning amid stressful times. At the same time, the passage is somewhat idealistic, as not all leaders live up to these ethical principles. Still, it offers a hopeful vision that if we hold onto shared values like respect, trust, and integrity, we can get through uncertain times together.

Bizjournals.com, 17 Feb. 2017, www.bizjournals.com/triangle/news/2017/02/17/guest-column-strong-ethics-provide-guidance.html. Accessed 15 Nov. 2025.