A former colleague shared this quote with us years ago.  We have never forgotten it.

The way people treat you is never a reflection of you.  Rather it is a reflection of them.

We have thought of this quote a lot in the past year plus.  There are those who encourage, admire, and support me for standing up to wrongdoing.  There are others who express their anger at our resolve for standing up to corruption. 

Why do people treat us so vastly different based on the the same reports of improper governmental action?

                        Well, the way people treat me is a reflection of them. 

If a person's moral standards encompass truth and integrity they will certainly admire our efforts. 

If, on the other hand, a person fears the truth, preferring to believe all is above-board, they will likely feel resentment towards us.  

Then there are those with much to lose when the truth comes out.  Those are the ones who engage in the smear campaign against us to cover their improprieties.

Think about the incredible power of the quote above.  It pertains to all of us in every interaction we have with people.  It is so very true. 

Do you support a reporter of illegal activity...or do you support those who engage in illegal activity?  Your own morals and standards will influence your answer.