Speaking the Truth

Today’s lesson in extraordinary collaboration is “speak the truth.” I’m not talking about not lying—that’s a given. I’m talking about saying what is true even when it’s difficult and no one really wants to hear it.

I’m dealing with a situation where people are not being treated honorably, myself included. It has taken a lot of private ranting and reflecting and self-examination to be able to sit down and clearly describe what is going on and how it affects those involved. And what I choose to do about it.

Speaking the truth is not easy. It is not a license to lash out in anger. Anger only obscures the message.

It is a process of sorting through my own experience and determining what are the facts and the principles, and what are my own reactions and biases.

It requires me to scrutinize my motives and make sure I am speaking with the purpose of shedding light on an issue, rather than exacting revenge.

Speaking the truth means choosing my words wisely and stating those facts and principles as clearly and succinctly as possible.

It also requires action. Once I speak the truth, what am I going to do about it? What action am I going to take to correct the situation?

And it requires detachment. My job is to state the truth as clearly as I can and then let it go. It does not matter how people respond. If I’ve done my job well, the truth will find it’s way to the ears of those who can hear it.