Transcript

The head of a large technology company felt nervous and stressed, but afraid to talk about it. If customers knew, he’d lose face. Employees must see his confidence, he thought. His peers couldn’t know—they were the competition. So behind a calm face, he lived in doubt. Drowning in fear, he rejected his lifeboats.

Long ago I learned to let close friends know me for who I really am. Besides my wife, I have several key people who keep me accountable. Vulnerability can feel risky—but it’s the reality check no one can live without.

I’m Howard Butt, Jr., of Laity Lodge urging you to form relationships that combine love with truth. Unlike the technology chief, when you give and receive candor, you’ll gain relief, energy, and wisdom—the fuel you need for the high calling of our daily work.

It is an honor to receive an honest reply.

(Prov. 24:26, NLT)

Image by James Vaughn. Used with permission. Sourced via Flickr.