Naturally Honest

Is anyone else shocked about David Letterman’s revelation last night on The Late Show? I’m really only half shocked and even that is more from the surprise that women actually slept with him. As Dave pointed out, “Would it be embarrassing if it were made public? Perhaps it would, especially for the women.” He made light of it but that’s what he does. In truth, it really sounds like a more serious situation that Dave has been dealing with behind the scenes.

I’m not going to spend any time here judging his actions. That’s not my desire or reason for bringing this topic up. I bring it up because it made me wonder if Dave would have come clean had an extortionist not threatened to out him.

We all have skeletons lingering in our closets (and some are better left there), but if we’re not being honest with ourselves are we able to be honest with others? I think it’s safe to assume that even the best of us have made mistakes and chose to cover it up in order to save a career, a relationship, or a reputation.

Many attribute the adage “Honesty is the best policy” to Benjamin Franklin. In truth, its origin’s actually date back to the sixteenth century from Archbishop Whatley of Dublin who completed the thought with, “…but he who is governed by the maxim is not an honest man.” It really changes the whole meaning doesn’t it?

You shouldn’t feel forced to tell the truth. It should be a natural inclination to be honest and if it’s not then you have some work to do. I know I sure do.

How can we learn to be more naturally honest with ourselves and others?