I have just reread The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins. I have enjoyed that series a great deal.
In the Mockingjay there is an exchange between Gale and Katniss concerning Peeta (sorry, if you haven’t read the books or see the movie the characters might not be familiar to you). Gale basically tells Katniss that Peeta isn’t seeing her as she really is.
Katniss has been reacting based on what she believed to be the case, rather than what the reality was. Gale helped to set her straight.
It hit me as I read those lines that we all need someone who will play the role of truth teller in our lives. Someone who cares enough about us not to try to impress or persuade us, but simply speak truthfully to us. Someone to help us see reality.
Why is that so? To keep us focused on the highest possible outcome of a situation, as opposed to the lowest possible outcome. Too many of us have a tendency to build out our actions based on a perception, usually something we have mulled over in our minds for quite some time. And all too frequently that perception is skewed.
That’s what Katniss was doing. Gale was being a truth teller.
We all need truth tellers.
I know I do.
Do you have one in your life who acts as a truth teller for you?
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I do’nt really read much and I doubt I’ll watch these movies, but I can agree with what you’ve said here! I think my wife is VERY good at that withme. And that’s important. It keeps things real, and we all need a little real.
TB at BlueCollarWorkman recently posted..Not Getting Ripped of During an Oil Change: A Tune-Up
My wife keeps me real, that’s for sure!
This is a great reminder. We do need truth tellers. It may be initially pleasant for some of us to associate with sycophants; however, as you rightly point out, there is a real danger in doing so: you may get the lowest possible outcome.
I applaud your use of a fictional story to highlight practical implications to our lives.
Roshawn @ Watson Inc recently posted..Why You NEED Blow Money
Thanks for your input. It is way too easy to only hear the things we like. Outside perspective is crucial to our own development and personal growth.