As the Freakonomics video revealed, sumo wrestlers, seemingly rational individuals, sometimes resort to cheating due to the enticing incentives presented by the sport’s ranking system. This phenomenon resonates with the reality that even in our everyday lives, we can face situations where the “easy way out” through unethical behavior holds the promise of greater rewards. Reflecting on my own experiences, I recall a situation where the temptation to cheat was prevalent, and by drawing upon Saint Leo’s core value of responsible stewardship, I navigated it with integrity.

The Compelling Opportunity:

During high school, I was struggling in my chemistry class. Despite putting in countless hours of studying, I consistently received poor grades. Then, one day, I discovered a website offering completed chemistry assignments for a fee. Suddenly, the prospect of achieving good grades without the arduous effort became incredibly tempting. The immediate benefit of a good grade, coupled with the minimal risk of getting caught, presented a powerful incentive to cheat.

Internal Conflict and the Value of Responsibility:

However, the allure of the easy win was met with a strong internal conflict. As a student of Saint Leo, I had ingrained in me the importance of responsible stewardship, a core value that emphasizes ethical conduct and personal integrity. The thought of betraying this value by cheating was deeply unsettling. I envisioned the negative impact it would have on my self-respect and my academic journey.

Choosing Integrity over Convenience:

Ultimately, the values instilled by Saint Leo’s curriculum, along with the potential consequences of my actions, outweighed the immediate benefits of cheating. I decided to reject the online solution and instead focus on my own learning. This involved attending extra help sessions, forming study groups with classmates, and seeking additional resources beyond the textbook.

Embracing the Challenge:

This honest approach, while more challenging, proved to be immensely rewarding. My dedication to learning led to a gradual improvement in my understanding of the subject. The satisfaction derived from genuine learning and the sense of accomplishment from overcoming difficulties far surpassed any fleeting satisfaction I might have received from cheating.

The Power of Responsible Stewardship:

The experience taught me the invaluable lesson that ethical behavior, even when faced with tempting shortcuts, is ultimately more fulfilling. Embracing Saint Leo’s core value of responsible stewardship provided me with the strength and clarity to navigate a difficult situation with integrity. It instilled in me a commitment to personal responsibility, academic honesty, and the pursuit of knowledge through my own efforts.

Facing Similar Situations in the Future:

Looking forward, I know that I will inevitably encounter situations where the path of least resistance may appear more attractive. However, by holding fast to the principles of responsible stewardship, I will be equipped to make ethical choices, even when faced with challenging circumstances. I will strive to:

• Recognize the potential consequences of unethical behavior, both short-term and long-term.
• Seek support from mentors, peers, or advisors when faced with ethical dilemmas.
• Prioritize personal integrity and long-term goals over immediate gains.
• Advocate for ethical conduct and encourage others to do the same.

Conclusion:

While the allure of easy wins can be powerful, the satisfaction derived from ethical behavior and personal responsibility is far more rewarding. By embracing the core value of responsible stewardship, we can navigate challenging situations with integrity, paving the path for a fulfilling and meaningful life. As I move forward in my academic and professional journey, I will continue to hold this value close to my heart, knowing that it empowers me to make ethical choices and contribute to a more just and fair society.