The Maltese cross is eight-pointed and has four "V" shaped arms joined together at their bases, so that each arm has two points. Its design is based on crosses used since the First Crusade. The eight points are said to symbolize eight virtues.
There was no such thing as a “uniform” code of ethics in the Middle Ages. Philosophers compiled lists of virtuous qualities; no two were exactly the same.
There are, however, several common themes found in these lists. Sumnicht & Associates, LLC, has adopted the following as our statement of the eight most important values at Sumnicht & Associates, LLC, which we strive to work and live by.
COURAGE
Our team must have the courage of heart necessary to undertake tasks which are difficult, tedious or unglamorous, and to graciously accept the sacrifices involved.
JUSTICE
Our team must hold themselves to the highest standard of behavior, and knows that “compromising” on even the little rules undermines the trust relationship we have with clients, colleagues, and society.
MERCY
Words and attitudes can be painful weapons in the modern world, which is why our team must exercise mercy in their dealings with others, creating a sense of peace and community, rather than engendering hostility and antagonism.
GENEROSITY
Sharing what’s valuable in life means not just giving away material goods, but also time, attention, wisdom and energy — the things that create a strong, rich and diverse community.
INTEGRITY
Our team must always be faithful to their promises, no matter how big or small they may be.
NOBILITY
The value of nobility conveys the importance of upholding one’s convictions at all times and putting the client’s interests first, especially when no one else is watching.
HOPE
More than just a safety net in times of tragedy, hope is present every day in our team’s positive outlook and cheerful demeanor — it shields them, and inspires people all around.
WISDOM
More than education and technical knowledge, wisdom is the capacity to realize and communicate what is of value in life for oneself and others. "Patience is the companion of wisdom." -- St. Augustine.
Each of these concepts is important in itself, and every one of these values is an admirable quality. When all of them blend together in one professional investment team, we discover the real power of having values and living those values in today’s world. A client’s financial team should strive to keep these values alive in their own hearts, but, perhaps more importantly, they should work to bring these wonderful qualities out in the people they see and serve every day — at home, in the office, at school, in meetings or on the street corner.
- Vern Sumnicht, CEO and Founder of Sumnicht & Associates, LLC