I have consistently valued honesty very high in my life. And I used to say that I am straightforward because of that quality. But there is a difference between being honest and being frank. Honesty is being truthful, not lying. Frankness on the other hand is saying what we think. Openly speaking our mind. Not tempering it for society in favor of civilized behavior.

Ofcourse, sensitivity and tact are needed sometimes. But what we should be wary of is getting used to moderating our speech to the point where it is simply polite and nothing more. That is how we start losing our identity.

I am very sensitive to how my words and actions could affect others and as a result, often opt to give a polite non-answer rather than speak my mind. But recently, I have realised how useful the latter can be in life. If we are open about ourselves, then it is a pretty good bet that the people who spend time with us are those who are good with who we are. This does not mean that they agree with everything we say but they like and respect us for who we really are all the same.

That is how true meaningful bonds gets forged. And isn’t that what gives life fulfillment?