Mindful speech: false speech

from Mindful Speech  beginning to 26:30.

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Notes:

Speak what is true, and speak what is helpful. Make sure both are there. 

Seems simple, but it is really difficult. 

Domains that include wise speech: 

• to obtain from false speech (untrue, lies, white lies, exaggerations), 
• to abstain from slander (ways we condemn people, and gossip), 
• avoid harsh speech (directly aggressive blastly, or passive aggressive, guilt induction)

It can trap us.

False speech. 

We say things we do not really mean, and there is a consequence. Its pervasive because it is one of the main tools from evolution (i.e. camouflage). It is a "false refuge" because it is compelling, effective, but does cause us harm in the long run. 

When we aren't honest, we add layers, and we can't be in touch with who we really are. We move further from that center. It happens in relationships and in society.

If we can't name whats true, we don't have a shared understanding on what is true. 

What about when we turn a blind eye - what is the result?

Reflection: 

Are you in a habit of lying? 
Slanting things a certain way? 
Withholding things out of fear? 

What is your sense of speech in those moments where you withhold things or exaggerate things?

First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—

Because I was not a Socialist.

Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out— 

Because I was not a Trade Unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out— 

Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.

Martin Niemöller (1892–1984) was a prominent Protestant pastor who emerged as an outspoken public foe of Adolf Hitler and spent the last seven years of Nazi rule in concentration camps.