Almost 20 years ago, Elizabeth Dryer wrote a short essay “Truth Matters,” regarding the spin given on various events and how we all use language in ways that threaten its integrity. It’s unnerving since language does serve as glue in a civil society. We have lost trust in what others say, especially in our so-called leaders, whether they be elected or the voices of media, culture, or, sometimes, even our neighbors.
This lack of trust in truth feeds cynicism, ending in our desire to batten down the hatches, so to speak, ending in our inability to see the perspectives of others. Seeing their perspectives does not mean accepting them; rather, it enables us to take on the untruths in their world views and their results.
It’s important to speak the truth to those who may not agree with us. We cannot just let politicians and neighbors just blithely be blind to the truths of the events of the day. It’s easier to email politicians or call their offices because it’s more impersonal; it’s more difficult to face a person and to stand for a point, but to rebuild truth, we must.
Prayer for the Day
Seeking new direction for our lives, O God,
We need you to be our constant companion;
Searching for new ways of thinking about our world,
We need your guidance to live beyond confusion.
Enable us to share the truth of your care with others,
So we may help build your kingdom of justice and mercy.
In the name of the One who spoke your truth,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen
Thoughts for the Day
What times are these, in which a conversation about trees is almost a crime
For in doing so we maintain our silence about so much wrongdoing!
Berthold Brecht, German poet, playwright in 1939 (1898-1956)
The chances of factual truth surviving the onslaught of power are very slim indeed; it is always in danger of being maneuvered out of the world not only for a time but, potentially, forever.
Hannah Arendt, political philosopher (1906-1973)
O send out your light and your truth; let them lead me;
Let them bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling.
Then I will go to the alter of God, to God my exceeding joy;
And I will praise you with the harp, O God my God.
Psalm 43: 3-4