Do you have a person who speaks truth to you? Is that person also someone you trust? Does it make a difference if you trust the truth teller? It does for me.
The friend who calls me out on my stance on an issue by saying “normally I’m on board with you on these things, but I have to tell you why I think you are wrong this time….” The dear one who points out “you’re angry because he’s angry” brings tears of laughter to my eyes with the acknowledgement of how crazy that sounds. The friend who says “no” to a social event because she needs an evening home to herself reminds me about authenticity and self-care. Why do I not go down the rabbit hole of hurt feelings when these friends speak their truth? I trust them fully and know they care about me. It is really that simple. The trust tank is full. I know they are going to give it to me straight. I also believe that at the end of the day they have my back. Any one of these people could choose to avoid dealing with the temporary discomfort of sharing the truth. However, by sharing the truth and navigating uncomfortableness, our connection grows deeper.
Are you a truth teller with yourself and others? Does trust exist between you and the people with whom you share your truth?
Trusted truth tellers pave the path for authenticity and inspire conflict resolution. Thank you, trusted truth tellers. You help create peace in the world.
