Nancy Reading wrote:
Travis Johnson wrote:The truth must always be said, but the truth does not always have to be spoken.
Or: "if you can't say something nice, say nothing" and move on.
This. I find that saying nothing is often a very good option.
When I was a bit younger (like late teens and early 20s) I felt like I had to constantly put my opinions out there, regardless of context or circumstances. As a result, I'm afraid I came across as not-very-nice on more than one occasion. Then, at some point, I realized that I didn't have to say what I thought
all the time. My opinions are mine, no-one is going to take them away just because I don't constantly assert them. Once I got this, it felt hugely liberating.
In my humble opinion, being able to
not state your position all the time is a sign that you are confident in your views and ideals. At least, that's how it was for me. Conversely, I think the people who shout the loudest, the people who feel compelled to crush anyone who isn't exactly like them, they are likely to be the least confident.
Nice does not mean weak. Quiet does not mean stupid.