We’ve all heard the phrase, "Be there or be square.

Back in the jazz era, it meant if you didn't show up to the venue, you were uncool and out of touch. But if you look back a little further—before the 1940s—calling someone "square" was the ultimate compliment. It meant they were honest, fair, grounded, and reliable. A square deal. A solid person.

I like the original version better.

When it comes to the people and practices we care about, being there is being square. Showing up for what matters to us and offering our full presence is the highest form of integrity we have.

“Be there AND be square.” A gift to give. A gift to receive. A constant goal.