Andrew J. Lederer

Yes, I know I have to shave. But I only have limited time to spend in the bathroom where I'm staying, not as a matter of policy but as a means of staying out of my host's way. Those around me should be grateful I generally get to shower.

Unfortunately, with each day I don't shave, more razors become necessary. Maybe I need to buy some and I don't have the money and even if I do, there'll be hair all over the bathroom and cleaning it up requires even more time I might not have, which means I go still longer without shaving.

So, is it possible I can't take the truth? (I'm not changing the subject, merely being vague.)

I don't think "the truth hurts". It's whatever we're sensitive to that hurts.

Damning truths we don't care about roll off us like water off a duck's back while questionable criticisms that play into our insecurities sting like a face full of mace. (Okay, I admit it. I've never had a face full of mace but I imagine it's not too pleasant.)

I'm pretty sure I do want the people in my life to tell me the truth but I want them to employ a favorable or at least charitable context; to view me through a prism of understanding. If they see my worst aspects in the wrong way, it seems to mean we're not sympatico. Who is this stranger who sees me this way?

So, it's not the awareness of my flaws that stings, it's the lack of understanding.

That notwithstanding, I realize I do need to shave.