Some of us tell the truth, and sadly some people don’t. Some people exaggerate out of jest, but others do so because they like to gain popularity or impress: “My daddy owns a helicopter and if you don’t let me have a turn, then I won’t invite you to come and see it…”

Hopefully, post childhood, as adults we have learned that truth and integrity are the purest aspects of being human. I’ve always felt blessed because my late father hated any form of lying, encouraging my siblings and I to always be truthful: irrespective of the consequences.

I feel proud that I like being truthful, and it’s one of the best life-lessons bestowed on me by my wonderful late father.

In so, I am self-truthful too. I know the limitations of my mobility, I know myself well, and my sometimes-hampering idiosyncrasies. I have one set of things to remember, and never have to construct.  I sleep with a clear conscience, and although I have problems, I can solve them through being truthful with myself.

Often in life, we meet people who are truthful, yet it is especially refreshing when I note that they are also being self-truthful. It is a constructive and empowering state of mind to be frank with ourselves. It is like owning a home: however scruffy the building is, the foundations are firm and secure.

Yet some people still wrestle with self-truth, even though they have outgrown playground tales; and they don’t make a habit of being untruthful: but they still fib to themselves.

I believe that this doesn’t make them bad people; they are still enduring the negative effects of poorly learned behavioral patterns. There could be a host of varying reasons, why some people kid themselves; yet being self-truthful is liberating.

When we grow the courage to be truthful to ourselves, it’s extremely helpful in managing every aspect of our lives.

For instance, I have to do a minimum of fifteen reps of about five different exercises given to me by my physiotherapist. I tend to do more since my cerebral palsy is becoming harder to manage, and I wish to remain mobile. It doesn’t matter how many I do; besides it varies according to outside influences, – such as the weather. I have to keep my weight down because of the irregular way that I walk. I have to be mindful about what I eat.

I have only been consciously aware of these factors for about two years: – Inline to when my disability worsened, but I feel lucky because I tend to enjoy healthy foods.

Therefore, my ability to be self-truthful, about my necessary actions is not blurred; I am experienced about the merits of being self -truthful. If I were to trick myself, then I’d only be hindering my mobility. Similarly, if I need help, then I’d seek assistance.

Of course, the truth is hard to process sometimes, but when we face any life challenge, starting with self-truth and facts: will make us stronger, and sharpen our sense of clarity.

I liken it to an over-grown garden, having been cleared: renovating the building before our eyes may feel daunting, but at least we know what we’re dealing with.

 

I hope this is helpful.

SUNNY wishes,

Emma x