Give Truth and Thanks

I once heard a story about a man whose job was to print money – as in the actual dollar bills that are printed and eventually handed to us by a banker, our parents, a friend, a cashier, etc. When shown a counterfeit, he could always tell that is was indeed, a false duplication of a real piece of money. When asked how he could be so knowledgeable about fake currency, his response was that he didn’t know much about counterfeits but he studied the real thing so much, he was able to spot a fake immediately. Herein lies the entire point of this blog: Don’t worry so much about studying FAKES, but instead, retain so much information about the TRUTH, you’ll recognize a lie as soon as you come across it. 

While contemplating the upcoming “Day of Thanks” and all the many blessings I have in my life (because every thanksgiving, mom makes every one of us go around the table and share all that we are thankful for so I’m trying to work on my list, mentally, ahead and time), the idea of truth has been at the forefront of my mind, as well. I am extremely thankful for family, freedom, the ability to reside in a country that, while imperfect, is STILL the greatest place to live in the world, safety, friendships that have stood the test of time/distance/hurt/disappointment and still remain intact…and the list goes on and on. However, the older I get, the more appreciative I become of raw honesty. There will be situations/news/scenarios that shake you to your core, rock your world and leave you hanging upside down, but if you know it to be unbridled truth – you may not *LIKE* it, but you learn to accept it and make the decision to (hopefully) continue living the wonderful life you lead. Whatever the scenario, be a man (or lady) and own the truth – whatever that may be. If you work at Mapco gas station or run Apple, Inc – be the best and do your best.

I was involved in a conversation about people’s views, thoughts, ideas about people and how certain “friend’s” opinions of me have changed over time as my status has changed, regarding careers and finances. It is very sad to find yourself being courted, flattered or chased after, ONLY because of your social status, or what you can bring to the table, so to speak. Sadly, when a lot of people gain a certain pinnacle of success or financial worth, they are treated differently. They are all of a sudden “wanted” by a mass number of people, who in the past couldn’t have cared less. This is another angle of “truth” I have been contemplating lately. You find yourself on guard around EVERY one, often unsure if people are truly your friends, or just after what they can get out of you. It takes a lot for me to let my guard down and trust anyone, but it’s even more hurtful when the few people I allow into my circle break my trust, hurt me, or go after those I love. 

Due to the number of times I’ve been deeply hurt by those I counted as close to me, I automatically assume the worst (even though I am a serial optimist, in most cases) and often take the “guilty until proven innocent” route. When discovering I have, indeed, been taken advantage of or lied to, it makes me so upset; I feel it makes each scenario even more difficult for the next friend who comes along, who may have very true and favorable intentions. 

As a habit, I often assume the “ditzy blonde” character, as it was who I personified for a large portion of my life. I DID say and do things without thinking, and often embarrassed myself with the things that came out of my mouth. However, I wasn’t born yesterday, and with age and maturity comes insight and knowledge (and “people” – those who can help you understand and grasp the truth even when you’ve been duped). It frustrates me when I know the truth backwards and forwards and for whatever reason, people choose to continue covering up their lies, in hopes that it is never found out. To sum it up: I started this blog as “free therapy”. I have said that from the beginning and there is no reason to stop putting it out there, now. Sometimes my entries are simple and light; sometimes comedic and laughable; other times, like now they are heavy and loaded with my true feelings and frustrations. It all comes down to this: Truth will ALWAYS shine through. You can cover it up, hide it, mask it – but it will always find a way to rise to the surface. Truth is stronger than any lie. The problem with lies is this: You can never tell just one. Ever. The minute you begin covering up the truth, you are engaging in a game of chess with truth, and it will ALWAYS be you who hears “Check Mate”.

When wrestling with how to handle any situation, keep this in mind: It’s easier to hear the truth and cry than to never ask the question, and always wonder.