21 Comments

When asked for an opinion, for example on an outfit, an option would be to find the one thing, no matter how small that would compliment it. The colour is lovely. I love that shade of blue. The detail in the collar is amazing.

Expand full comment
author

I do the same. I focus on the positive and try to not say the negative if not asked.

Thank you for engaging, Ingrid!

Expand full comment
Aug 1Liked by Harun Kewa

Yup. That really makes it all a lot easier because sometimes the truth is ugly (as you pointed out). We must accept it ourselves but never force people to accept it. We can always encourage respectfully.

The truth wakes us up from our state of ignorance. Whether it's good or bad, it's always true and real. Real life is hard but a delusion is dangerous. It's a very vast and interesting topic, isn't it?

Expand full comment
author

It truly is and one that no doubt will viewed differently by many.

Expand full comment

Truth can be ambiguous because it has the power to liberate and empower, it can also make us feel uncomfortable and vulnerable. Interestingly, people tend to fall into two situations: those who shy away from the truth because it disrupts their comfort zone, and those who actively seek it out as a catalyst for growth and learning. I've found myself in situations where I'm asked for my honest opinion, and I always ask for clarification in their intentions: are they seeking truth for growth or comfort? I firmly believe that truth can be shared in a way that is both authentic and compassionate, by discerning the RIGHT WORDS AND TONE that come from a place of love and respect for the other person.

Love this essay Harun! Thank you! ❤️

Expand full comment
author

I agree on the need to clarify why people are seeking the truth. It makes it easier to know how to deliver the truth to people. The truth is a bitter pill that must be administered carefully.

Thank you for your comment! I am glad this resonated with you, Yoli. 

Expand full comment

It’s true that truth, while an essential virtue, can sometimes act as a double-edged sword. The challenge lies in discerning when honesty serves a constructive purpose and when it might cause unnecessary harm. Sometimes, it’s not the truth itself but the manner in which it is conveyed that shapes its impact.

Absolutely loved reading this essay, Harun!

Expand full comment
author

I couldn’t agree more. I am glad you liked it, Mohika.

Thank you for commenting!

Expand full comment

Truth becomes toxic if it’s used in a derogatory manner. One must assess the situation and determine whether the truth will serve a purpose or merely denigrate. Very insightful, thank you for sharing Harun!

Expand full comment
author

Spot on, Bansi! The truth must be delivered carefully.

Expand full comment
Jul 31Liked by Harun Kewa

You've got a point, Harun! We should strive for a balance where truth serves a constructive purpose. It's true, truth, like medicine, should be administered thoughtfully and with care.

Expand full comment
author

I’m glad this resonated with you, Mo. The truth is a slippery slope.

Expand full comment

Telling the truth all the time is absolutism. You should say things because you have objectives to accomplish, not hear the sweetness of your words.

Tell the truth to those who want and can make use of it. Don't lie to the others, just wait for their time to come.

Timing is an art in the application of virtues, and one skilled enough to be virtuous will know when to say and not say some things.

Expand full comment
author

I couldn’t have put it better! Thank you for this, Patrick!

Expand full comment
Jul 30Liked by Harun Kewa

When i first started as a recruiter selling my services, i always felt like i had to NOT lie but embellish the truth a little. This ties into Yolanda's comment about truths being ambiguous, which i strongly agree with. Great article Harun!

Expand full comment
author

Right there with you mate! It’s important to know how to deliver the truth. Otherwise, it can be easily misinterpreted. Thanks, Prince!

Expand full comment
Jul 30Liked by Harun Kewa

👏👏👏

Expand full comment
author

🙏🏾

Expand full comment

The more helpful question would be Love will set you free. Truths can be tricky unless it is the absolute Truth which is we are God (Love)

Expand full comment

Something that I'm glad I didn't have to learn the hard way was: It's not what you say but how you say it. This is something that I see in feedback and even simple compliments. The 'how' goes further in getting across your meaning than the 'what'.

Expand full comment
author

Absolutely! The tone of delivery is everything.

Expand full comment