People often make the mistake of thinking that truth is like some kind of moral binary code. It’s either one or zero. Fact or fiction. Yes or no. Right or wrong. Good or evil.
Black or white. But most of us, if we’re honest, navigate the grey areas more often than we have perfect, unarguable mental, moral and emotional clarity on any given subject. And that can be scary.
Never fear. In times of ambiguity, one can always cling to one’s philosophical truths. This is where truth becomes less binary, because each of us has our own. These are the values that make each of us unique. They can be things we’ve learned the hard way, or things that define us, things that make us proud, or things we have to overcome.
Here are some truths. Many of them are not my truths. They belong to people I love.
- Creativity is an important part of my life.
- I will never let anyone hit me again. Ever.
- I don’t want to be a parent, and that’s okay.
- I am gay.
- I will not let my constant pain define me.
- My spouse no longer loves me, but a lot of other people do.
- I am a writer.
- It’s not a good idea to talk to me before I’ve had my morning coffee.
- I’ve hurt people in the past. I will do my best to make amends and move forward.
- My children are my life.
- I will always be able to count on my intelligence.
- It is important for me to maintain my sense of humor.
- I drink too much.
- I care about the wider world.
- I have dreams and aspirations.
- I’d rather have my integrity than my job.
- I’m proud of the fact that I live up to my responsibilities.
What are your truths? This is worth pondering, because the more you can express your truths, the stronger and more self-confident you will become.
The View from a Drawbridge 
Good one, B!
Awww. Thanks Vicky! Sorry I’ve been out of touch. Bear with me.
Fret not thyself. I’ve been reaching up to touch bottom for awhile. Getting better. Nothing is wrong, just lost focus.
I’m right there with you.
Wow… this is thought provoking… we all have truths… should we try to guess which ones belong to you?
Well, none of them that relate to children are mine, that’s for sure.
I just pick random ones… it’s like a game.
I now those that have seen me at my worst still love me and those that have seen me at my best don’t. I know that I am only half way to who I want to be.
Only half way? Wow. That must be exhausting. And I can tell you’re a great person, so “half way” sounds to me like you’re way too hard on yourself, Carole.