“Commitment is the result of choice, not conditions…commitment lasts when it is based on values.” -John Maxwell

This struck me today in two ways. First I see so many men in Cambodia break their marital commitments and justify their cheating due to what they feel are conditional allowances–such as their wives getting old or gaining weight, “everyone” else is doing it, and classic boredom. The entire concept of commitment as being a choice is lost to them. Secondly when people commit to what they believe in they are committing to their values. Committing to values ensures a greater chance to weather adversity and stay committed to what one believes. It is so often the case that behavior is the echo of belief. If want to see people change, neighborhoods transformed–we must shape their beliefs and in so doing we will shape their values and provide fertile ground for long-lasting commitment to be realized.