Radical Wisdom: January 2, 2021

Facts Are Friendly

Today’s reading was about the author discussing a debate he has been having with his wife over the years; are facts friendly? His wife shared that facts are not friendly while he believes they are. After reading his points for/against the statement, he asks the question:

“Will you parse for the truth or just assume facts are friendly?”

I’m a person that prefers to know the facts. As straight up as they can be presented. Facts can hurt at times, but if I can attach to an undeniable truth, I will adapt. If I’m presented with “alternative facts”, half-truths, or false impressions, I can’t respond as effectively as I would like to.

Throughout my life, the facts have been my friends because they have been authentic. I’ve never really looked for acquaintances. You know, the type of people that make you feel good for a bit but disappear when things get tough? I can depend on facts, family, and friends. I can make solid decisions and build a sturdy foundation off of facts.

I will assume that facts are friendly. I don’t like to parse through someone’s words to find the truth. Mind you, I value words of affirmation! When someone has a harsh truth to share with me that involves myself, I feel disappointed. I don’t like to hear that I have discomforted, or harmed, anyone in any way. That said, I value integrity more. Tell me what I need to hear. Not what I want to hear.

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” John 8:32

It is upon me to receive information and handle myself with control instead of letting my emotions get the best of me. Easier said than done, but that is my responsibility.

Galatians 4:16 asks, “Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth?”

When I hear this, I am reminded that facts are also hurtful, painful, and not always friendly to others. I should have finesse when it comes to how I speak “my truth” to others. Facts don’t always add value to your life. Instead, they can cause hurt feelings and cause relationships to dissolve. They can cause doubt, worry, and anxiety. I should be mature enough to know when I should share what “I know” and when I shouldn’t.

How do you perceive facts? Are facts friendly?

“Will you parse for truth or just assume facts are friendly?”