Back in the day there was a TV game show entitled “To Tell the Truth.” It had three contestants convincing a celebrity panel that they were who they said they were, but only one contestant was telling the truth.
I have jokingly said that the Dose can provide excuses—typically non-truths—for just about any ill actions, or reasons for whatever! So, it didn’t surprise me when I was once asked how to decline an invitation for the “just-because-I-don’t-want-to-go” reason.
As I listed out a litany of so-called reasons for saying “No”, I ended up advising the person to just tell the truth – something on the order of, “Thank you for this [adjective] invitation, but I won’t be attending. I’m sure the [X] will be a lovely time and I’m looking forward to hearing all about it.” All communicated with compassion and in a non-confrontational manner.
Responses that are short, sweet, and to the point are best, as every imaginable response, outside of the truth, lends itself to further “non-truths.”
And as the saying goes – the Truth Shall Set You Free. And that indeed is the truth… as I learned firsthand, repeatedly, as a child!
The truth is not hard to know, it’s just difficult to be honest in a delicate or challenging situation.
Tell the truth… be free!
Photo: Christ of Havana – Cuba 2019