HONESTY

The Bible tells us that the truth will set us free. Why, then, do we hold back on the truth so often, especially in the confines of a relationship? Why do keep details from the ones we supposedly love? Why do we fear being honest? Is it the vulnerability it opens us up to? Do we withhold the truth, fearing that it may hurt another person?

I’ve learned a lesson in honesty very personally the last couple of weeks. For several months Parker and I have avoided necessary conversations, preferring to ignore the truth that was there before us the whole time. Now that we’ve decided to separate ourselves as a couple, there is a newfound freedom, at least for me. I’ve shared things I’ve been withholding for months. Why? Maybe it’s because I have nothing left to lose. Maybe it’s the necessity of having a clear conscience.

Here’s my confession: As I mentioned previously, Parker and I went to visit his parents on Sunday evening for a birthday celebration. While there, he privately told his father of our decision to separate. On our way home, he was telling me of the conversation between him and his father. He said he told his father that we don’t hate one another, that as far as he’s concerned, I’m still a part of the family. I told him that I think I actually may love him more now than I did before, because we’ve been so honest with one another.

Few people understand how I feel when I tell them how well I’m doing post-break up. In all honesty, I’m at peace. The full magnitude may hit me sometime out of the blue in the days or weeks ahead, but I honestly believe that the truth has set me free. I am at peace.