Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Brevity

Often, the fewest words convey the most truth. Consider the last political discussion you heard. Did words clarify or conceal? And how about that argument you had with your partner that went on and on when a few words might have ended it: "I'm very critical. I'm sorry." Speaking the truth can, of course be difficult ; you might lose an election or a friend. But using words as camouflage also carries risks. You may be building a relationship on false intimacy. Or, if you are being dishonest with yourself, you may have feelings of alienation and confusion.

To know more, practice the simple truth. Try saying something important and true about yourself in one sentence. Something basic that shapes your life. When I asked Anita to do this she said, "I will never be abandoned." This was a decision made early in life that she was not aware of making until she spoke that sentence. The truth of it shows in the wide circle of friends she has acquired and in her interest in community. Carl's sentence was, "I will always be alone." Regardless of the people in Carl's life, loneliness is his core experience and it influences the depth and duration of his relationships.

If you had fun with that exercise, try this one. Tell an important story in your life in a sentence. Remember Hemingway's famous shortest, short story: For sale: baby shoes never worn.

And, though fearful of being wordy, I, nevertheless, have to quote Beckett's insight into Everyman's life: You must go on. I can't go on. I will go on. Talk about truth in brevity. Sums up a lot of days, doesn't it.

10 comments:

withallmyheart said...

"I will not ever be worthy."

Bridget said...

What a lot your comment says. I can think of ways it may play out. ...actually "withallmyheart" struck me. Thanks for your moving comment.

MtC said...

One of your best!

Bridget said...

Hi MtC,Are you saying that because it's short? Thanks for watching.

Anonymous said...

"No one loves me."
"Life is hard."
"I'm unhappy."

Why do so many of them come out negative? Some of the good feelings come out with no words at all.

Bridget said...

Hi Anonymous. Thanks for your comment.

Life is hard and you can feel unhappy if you think no one loves you. There are lots of kinds of love and lots of degrees. Every kind word, every smile or helpful action are bits of love. Don't pass up the little stuff while waiting for the one true love of your life... and if you don't have a loving family be open to friendship.

Anonymous said...

There is so much truth in Brevity.
In my life I find that the less I say the better off I am.

I know I will always be loved.

Bridget said...

Hi Anonymous. I like your comment. I find the same is true in my own life. Past a certain point it gets fuzzy. And your one truth is such a great one.

MtC said...

I am stating my love for you in a soft voice from the prairies.

Bridget said...

Absolutely lovely, MtC.