Daily writing prompt

What principles define how you live?

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I’ve never been much for lofty mission statements or inspirational wall plaques. But if I had to narrow down the principles that guide my life, I can trace most of them back to my mom and my stepdad, Charles Fulton. My dad, Marvin DeBolt, was a good man — steady, hard-working, and dependable — but he wasn’t much of a teacher. Charles was. He made a point of showing me what integrity and honesty looked like in action. And Mom? She taught me to treat people with decency and respect, even when they didn’t always deserve it.

They both taught me to follow Jesus and to make Him the center of my life. That foundation — faith first — has been what steadied me through the hard seasons and helped me recognize grace when it showed up disguised as a detour.

Integrity isn’t optional.
When I teach my students about journalism ethics, I remind them that truth is non-negotiable. The same goes for life. Whether it’s grading papers, writing fiction, or calling a football game on Friday night, doing what’s right matters more than doing what’s easy. Shortcuts might save a minute, but they can cost you trust — and trust takes a lifetime to earn.

Relationships are the real reward.
Mom modeled this one without ever saying a word. I’ve lived long enough to know that success means very little without people to share it with. My wife, my daughter, my grandson, my students — they’re the reason the work matters. Every meaningful chapter in my life has been about connection: rediscovered friendships, long talks after class, or quiet evenings with Daryl. The people around me shape the person I keep becoming.

Gratitude changes the tone of everything.
Charles used to remind me that contentment isn’t about what you have, but how you see what you have. When I start the day grateful — even for small things like coffee in my travel mug or a quiet classroom after the last bell — the rest of the day takes on a different rhythm. Gratitude doesn’t erase the hard parts, but it reminds me how blessed I really am.

Faith steadies the course.
I’ve had enough curveballs in life to know that control is mostly an illusion. My faith doesn’t make everything easy, but it gives me purpose and peace when things don’t make sense. It’s what reminds me that redemption is real — in stories, in people, and even in seasons of life that seemed lost.

Growth is necessary.
Life itself taught me that lesson. Growth means staying curious, humble, and willing to learn — even from my own mistakes. Whether I’m editing Tumbleweeds, experimenting with new lessons for my students, or trying to help two dogs coexist peacefully, I’m reminded that we’re never finished learning.

So maybe my “principles” aren’t carved in stone, but they’re written in the handwriting of the people and experiences that shaped me — especially two who quietly taught me how to live with faith, honesty, and grace.

Copyright © 2025 Doug DeBolt.