26th Year

A year of reflection. Of change. Thanks to all my friends and family for the birthday wishes this past week. It has been a great year and a wonderful day today! I'm in my favorite place with my favorite person. I love my life and the fact that my birthday falls on the busiest, in terms of traffic, shopping day of the year. Irony is my friend in so many ways. A smile comes to my face with just the thought. I couldn't resist the urge to share my thoughts on this evening ode to consumerism. How proud am I that the anniversary of my birth falls on the day that more Americans are in shopping malls than at home with their families on this glorious Friday; either working or shopping. On this weekend when we give thanks for the incredible spoiled bounty that overfills our cup spilling out into the surrounding land, flooding nearby villages and killing thousands; let us remember to find contentment in the little things in life like cheese, puppies, gooses and goodness.

Some prefer lies over the truth

So, let me ask you this question: Would you prefer to hear the truth even though it may hurt, or continue to be told a lie because it is comfortable? To me, the answer seems obvious. The truth is more valuable than precious gems or paper money or any other worthless trinket in this world in my opinion. Apparently, there are those who do not place a high value on honesty as I do. In fact, there was a recent situation locally where someone was completely honest with a loved one, only to have that loved one become hurt and distant. What a great idea! Let's punish the person who answers honestly! That does not make sense to me. All my relationships, family and friends, are based on honesty. What I look for most in those close to me is the ability to be candid, albeit with some tact. We tell the truth because we love. I have often heard from the lips of those closest to me some of the hardest truths to swallow. But, I do not walk away from the encounter with a lowered head. I stand tall, knowing that there was someone who cared for me enough to be direct with me. I thank that person for their honesty and our relationship will be that much stronger. How can a steady relationship be built on a foundation of dishonesty? Even sharing half-truths is a way to distance yourself from others. Now, I am not condoning the practice of telling everyone you know whatever is on your mind, but if they ask? Don't beat around the bush. Don't dish out more bullshit. There are mountains of it everywhere as it is. Try being honest. Yes, there is a chance for hurt feelings, even an end to the relationship. But for me, I would rather seek the truth than a lie. And if you have a friend or family member who comes to you with a truth of their own, embrace it. Cherish the momentary pain, and realize that it is a chance for growth if you let it. Everyone today is so afraid of getting hurt that they miss so much. Break down those walls and take a peek outside! It is beautiful!