Food for thought this week.  How often have you asked or been asked "How are you?".  How often have any of us responded with a completely honest answer?  Most of us exchange superficial pleasantries just out of habit.  We wouldn't think of admitting how we really are or expect the same of another.  Polite social niceties are just the way things are. We don't feel the need to brace ourselves for the full truth in conversation, as sharing it is not expected.

Ironically, though, sharing information can be a pretty radical and powerful thing.   For example,the government of Iran has responded to public reaction over the recent election by cracking down on texting and cellphone communications, as well as Internet access.  Still, according to the New York Times, people are finding ways to express themselves and share information with the world through blogging, Twitter and Facebook.

The absense of communication ensures the status quo remains safely in place. Historically, this has been the case in virtually any country.

On a smaller scale, within a relatiionship, the same is true. Without unfettered dialogue, toxic behaviors go unchecked, misery flourishes, personal growth is stifled - in the end no one really wins.

What would happen if we paid less attention to smoothing the waters and spoke our own truths?  How would our personal or professional lives look if we dared to depart from the expected message?   If we didn't bottle up what we really feel or what we really want, what kind of lives would we have?

I suspect there would be radical differences.

While some of us are lucky enough not to be silenced by some external body, the truth of the matter is that we all grow to silence ourselves at one time or another.  Whether it is in response to a government action or an unacceptable situation at home, truthfully speaking the words "I believe..." is a radical act.

blessings,

Catie

Copyright 2009 WomanLinks.com

About the Author : Catie Hayes is founder/editor of WomanLinks.com; a community of support, spirituality, growth and empowerment for women. She is a freelance writer, the single homeschooling mom of two, and an avid fan of laughter, spontaneous dancing, cats and chocolate (not necessarily in that order).