The Value of Truth In Relationships

     Truth  supersedes all other  attributes in a personal  relationship.  It is the bedrock upon which this special connection must thrive.   Failure to be forthright undermines its stability  and defines the authenticity of  its members in a way that demeans them. Lack of credibility will disintegrate all trust.  The relationship becomes history.
     Richard Pryor, the late and great American comedian, actor, film director, writer and uncompromising social critic once said only three types of people tell the truth--- kids, drunk people, and anyone who is  f______g  pissed off.  If you have ever been any of these three, you  are aware being honest  is a challenge.  In a significant relationship it  takes even more courage and due diligence for those involved to maintain this truthfulness.   Here  are some  obstacles we may encounter while trying to sail on a steady course:

• We sacrifice our happiness for the sake of another.
• We are overwhelmed with self-doubt with regard to the  inability of another  to accept the truth in an appropriate manner. 
• We detect a lack of the tools, experience or desire to interact in a  personal level in others. .
• We discover  egocentric behavior  impedes another persons  ability to listen with objectivity   invariably bringing  the topic at hand back to themselves.
• We are dealing with someone who may have a tendency to become  defensive and interpret a desire for a serious dialog as negative criticism making communication unattainable.  

      All of the above are red flags detracting from any meaningful interaction.  They indicate a need for relationship  revision otherwise  demise is eminent.  Over-reactions to circumstance  may indicate an inability to accept each other as equals and/or a lack of investment in the relationship.  Self-sacrifice can lead resentment, anger, jealousy and self-abandonment.
      There is no room personal growth within this type of social interaction if these adverse effects persist.  What exists is a misrepresentation of each of the participants.    When either of the participants  have  continually been compromised or been mistreated,  it becomes necessary  to dissolve the association .  Temporary pain of loss  it is better than living a lie. We need to live a life that makes us happy by seeking out relationships  that serves us truthfully.

Bottom Line:  Make the most of each moment by surrounding yourself with those who value the importance of truth in a relationship with you.