A life lived with integrity - even if it lacks the trappings of fame and fortune is a shining star in whose light others may follow in the years to come.

The quote contrasts external “trappings” (fame and fortune) with an internal standard (integrity). Waitley frames integrity not merely as private virtue but as a public, guiding light: a life consistently aligned with moral principles becomes an example others can navigate by, even after the person is gone. The “shining star” metaphor implies permanence and orientation—integrity creates a legacy that is less about being celebrated and more about being useful to others. The significance lies in redefining success as ethical coherence and long-term influence rather than short-term applause or accumulation.