Hello everyone. This week we read up to pg134 Self Revealing, Compassion and Forgiveness. We talked about Right Speech and how difficult it can be "to speak the truth, in a timely manner, only if useful and kind" P133
We addressed the idea of restraint of pen and tongue, and Kevin sayd " Saying nothing can be one of the most skillful uses of speech in many situations"p 132
While I certainly agree with this, just for the sake of discussion, let's bring up the flip side...when not speaking up isn't telling the truth. It's usually referred to as "lies of omission"".
Can you relate to this? How might this have changed in your recovery journey?
I know for me, as big as a liar as I was in my addiction, I struggled more with what I didn't say in early recovery. I often withheld information from my boyfriend, my employer and/or my family for the sake of appearance and ego and keeping the peace. If I was concerned about something I'd done, I just wouldn't mention it, especially if I knew there would be concern or disagreement around it. However, as my sponsor was quick to point out, this wasn't being impeccable with my word or authentic to myself or the concept of truth.
It is a lesson that I am continually learning - what is too much to say and what is enough, and of course when is the right time to say it. That's why I like the other 3 gates....does it need to be said? does it need to be said by me? does it need to be said by me now? This helps to keep me on the path of truth and kindness in my speech, without allowing me to hide in the silence.
What about you?
