The Truth (Book It.)

I don't want to give the impression that it is all fun and games in the Cleveland Browns forum. Oh no. We discuss all manner of deeply important topics. Why today alone we discussed whether or not the Browns should have the old throwback numbers on their helmets, exactly what would be an appropriate uniform for an internet BFF, and who got laid last night. These are no frivolous matters.

We also delved into a discussion of Truth. What is it? Does it exist? Must it necessarily be uttered? Can two contradictory truths exist at the same time? I report happily that the discussion resulted in few insults and no flames whatsoever. (Amazing, given that not all of us actually got laid last night.)

I said that, just because something is true, doesn't mean you have to say it. My Granny taught me that. For example, I may detest feta cheese. Perhaps I'm allergic and risk death by consuming it. The fact that you say you love it does not call for my declaration of feta hate simply because it is true I hate it. Even if asked directly, must I say, "I hate that shit! Are you trying to kill me?" or could I simply say, "I don't care for it. I'm allergic."

In regard to other areas of Truth, such as religion, the territory is even more difficult to navigate. Since faith can be neither proved nor disproved, my Truth as a Zoroastrian may be in direct contradiction to your Truth as a Neo-Pagan, let alone the Truth of an Atheist. All of us believes the Truth for ourselves. And while these many conflicting truths may be enjoyable and educational to discuss, there is no point arguing them. No one can win.

My friend deymond, who I anticipate will respond to this post, argues that we should not fear Truth nor fear to utter it at will. It isn't that I fear the Truth, but rather that I loathe unnecessary confrontation. I try to avoid the most inflammatory language, even if it is more true, for the sake of not alienating the other parties in the discussion. I would rather be misunderstood because I wasn't clear enough than be misunderstood because I put someone on the defensive. Conflict is normal and can't be avoided. Aggression is a choice.

Nine times out of 10, the Truth on the tip of your tongue is trivial and can go unsaid. The world will continue to spin quite nicely, and tomorrow you'll be happy you bit your tongue. And that's the Truth.