Truth as a Way of Being in Relationship
This essay, taken with permission from Let's Talk About Truth (Ave Maria Press, 2020) explores truth as faithfulness in relationships, drawing on the Hebrew concept of "emet" - a word suggesting something stable and trustworthy that "stands on two legs." Unlike Greek philosophical notions of truth as correspondence to reality, biblical truth emphasizes relational fidelity. The author, Ann Garrido, distinguishes this from mere loyalty, emphasizing that being "true" means remaining trustworthy and committed even during disagreement or conflict, not uncritically supporting others' actions. The essay addresses practical challenges like prioritizing relationships within human limitations, navigating difficult relationships, and balancing fidelity with personal integrity. It emphasizes that being true in relationships requires skills for "hanging in" during disagreements while maintaining appropriate boundaries when relationships become harmful or unsustainable.
