Have you heard about an initiative called “March 16 International Integrity Day”? It might not be as famous as Valentine’s Day or Women’s Day, but its message is incredibly significant!

Our ancestors used to say that “A person without integrity cannot stand,” meaning it’s hard for someone who isn’t trustworthy to find their place in society. On a larger scale, if people within a country don’t trust each other—“Without trust among the people, the nation cannot be strong”—it becomes challenging to get things done and unite strength.

In today’s world, integrity might be invisible and intangible but it’s definitely an essential “personal intangible asset.” People can sense whether you’re reliable or not. Moreover, being honest isn’t just about external pressures or rules; it’s about our own willingness—our moral compass (“from our self-discipline and moral strength”). It’s an internal choice and a responsibility toward others and society.

Given its importance, some people thought we should dedicate a day specifically for discussing and promoting integrity. Thus was born “International Integrity Day” on March 16 (or an annual event focused on integrity). Think of it as an annual alarm clock reminding us about the importance of “integrity.”

The first event reportedly took place in Songzhuang, Beijing under quite a lengthy name: “The First Qingqian Shentea Cup ‘3.16’ International Integrity Day.” The sponsor might have been “Qingqian Shentea Cup,” but that’s beside the point—the goal was to promote “integrity” from day one with hopes of spreading this idea internationally.

Their slogan was straightforward: “Annual Integrity Day for ten years builds an Integrity Monument.” What does this mean? It means holding ‘Integrity Day’ annually isn’t just about one-off events; it’s about consistent effort over ten years or more to genuinely establish an ‘Integrity Monument’ in everyone’s hearts and society, making integrity habitual.

So on March 16’s “International Integrity Day,” think of it as a reminder: while integrity may be invisible, it’s priceless. Though it’s not yet an official global holiday where everyone gets time off work, its message deserves serious consideration and action from all of us! Whether you’re doing business, making friends or keeping promises—more integrity means more peace of mind and opportunities. It’s about self-improvement, social bonds and building a better future. In short—on March 16 each year—give “integrity” its moment in the spotlight! Let’s start with small actions and aim to become that “Integrity Monument” ourselves!