From the Desk of Chief Ogden | Seeds of Leadership | By Chief David A. Ogden
“When People Show You Who They Are, Believe Them”
Integrity isn’t just a leadership trait—it’s the foundation of trust, both personally and professionally. In law enforcement, we know this: lies always surface. And when they do, panic sets in, the circle tightens, and chaos follows for those who choose to maintain the deception.
Recently, I gave someone the benefit of the doubt. I told myself it could be a mistake… a miscommunication… not a lie. But time always tells the truth.
Lies destroy trust. They fracture relationships. And when confronted, people typically choose one of two paths:
Stand their ground and go down with the ship
Or acknowledge the truth, repent, and ask for forgiveness
The sad truth? The table of introspection is filled with empty seats. Too many would rather self-destruct than sit down, face the truth, and grow.
Why? Because fear, pride, and shame are powerful.
But real strength comes through humility.
And sometimes… rock bottom is the beginning of rebuilding.
Let this be a reminder:
Integrity wins. Always.
Regards,
David A. Ogden
“Outdo one another with Honor.”
