Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Why Not Tell the Whole Truth?

Truth is relative.
What we see and believe and perceive is in the eye of the beholder.
If we believe the worst, we see the worst.
What we believe, we see.

The mind will seek for confirmation of what it believes.
The mind searches to make itself “right”.
The mind wants to prove its own “truth”.
What we express as “truth”, causes denial of what others believe and perceive.

Everyone is seeing life through their own filters.
Perceptual filters come from history, experience, teachings and beliefs.
We filter evidence to prove ourselves right in what we believe.
Therefore the only truth is what we believe.

Years ago I learned a powerful relationship and communication tool.Express your opinion ( perception/truth) one time only.
If the other simply listens, let it go.  No need to repeat or ask for agreement.
If the other resists or disagrees, drop your position.
Let it go and listen with an open mind.

There is no benefit in arguing or fighting to win.
Arguing usually engenders a win/lose fight.
Fighting usually creates a separation, disharmony and lack of love.
Separation and lack of love usually cause unhappiness for both parties.

When we share emotional truth, the emotions distort the facts.
When sharing facts, perceptions and “truths”. we must realize they are distorted and colored by feelings.
When we are neutral and have no vested interest in our way of seeing things, we can openly consider others viewpoints, perceptions and truths.
The more we can model open-mindedness and consideration of the others viewpoint, the more we demonstrate a “fair-care-share” way of relating.

Remember, your “truth” is not the whole truth.
Your truth represents your beliefs, history, perceptions and choices.
Every other perception or “truth” will be different than yours.
When we hear and accept others viewpoints, we are wiser and more able to negotiate win/win solutions.

Consider the power of being conscious and aware.
Consider the energy savings of no more arguing or proving yourself “right”.
Consider the value of building open, respectful, responsible and cooperative relationships.
Consider the enjoyment that comes from living and working in harmony with collaboration.

This is not only possible, it is essential for those who choose to live at peace.
This is a powerful model in a family setting, demonstrating for children a better way to live.
This conflict resolution tool will bring respect, cooperation and peace to all negotiations.
Peace to all who choose to find a better way,
Betty Lue