Verity
I believe in living truthfully.
I believe that living truthfully is far beyond not telling lies. It is loving those you love, and telling them so. It is fulfilling your passions, no matter what other people say. It is dreaming of your wishes for the world, and taking chances to make these wishes real. It is letting yourself be vulnerable, lowering the mask that other people admire every day.
I am by no means saying this is easy. It certainly isn’t for me. Letting diffidence fly out the window and letting emotion – true, raw emotion – grab hold of me and take me places I’ve never been? Um, no thanks. I’d much rather be in control. On the other hand, I do like a good challenge. And living a continuously truthful life is something that, at this point, is just an aspiration. But I’m getting closer. I have my moments. I’ve found that when I trust myself, when I truly know that my inner strength is there and always will be, and when I can take the step to live truthfully, even for a moment, it’s the most exhilarating feeling I know. Because, at that moment, I truly am.
For some, living truthfully has had dire consequences, ranging from crucifixion or hemlock to assassination. But look at what these people left behind: a new religion based on love and forgiveness, an inspiration for western philosophy, a resounding dream for an inclusive future. These people took the risk and lived truthfully, and in doing so, created a legacy that is still alive today.
Don’t worry – I’m not hinting at a secret desire to die or anything. I have too much to look forward to. I have too much to live for. My life thus far has been so full of blessings that I cannot help but want to share these blessings with others, and I believe that, by sharing and being open, one person truly can change the world. And one step at a time, I’m learning to open up, to explore, to take risks, to stand firm. Life, after all, is too short to waste. Every moment is precious. Every wish is inspiring. Every relationship is sacred. And I believe, by living truthfully, we make it so.