Without Filters

What would happen if we all lost our ability to filter through and censor our thoughts before we communicated them?  What if we just spoke out about our beliefs/our opinions/our feelings/our thoughts/our judgments/our choices/ our values without reservation?

Would you have more friends or less?  Would you offend people more or would more people be aware of your love for them? 

If I spoke without censoring my own words, I'd probably have to apologize much more frequently.  I'd certainly be written up at work for offending more than a couple of customers.  My struggles with self doubt would be more evident.  And I would sound much more confused about my beliefs than I do now, what with my internal filters always allowing me to get to the "right answers".

I learn so many things from my husband, all of the time.  He and I are different in many ways, and there are so many things about him that I respect, admire and love.  One thing that is very true about him is that he is blunt.  He tells me exactly what he thinks about a situation, no more and no less.  Sometimes, it is very difficult for me to hear what he has to say.  But, when he says positive things, I am especially grateful for them because I know that he doesn't manufacture things just to make me feel good.  He's genuine.

One of the things that I've really come to learn from him is that words are important.  What he says matters.  He isn't one to fill the space with meaningless jabber.  But, also, he's just honest.  He doesn't hide behind something because he worries what others will think.  He'll talk about his faith, his politics, his struggles, his loves, whatever...and he does so unapologetically.  AND, if that weren't enough, he also knows how to listen, even to people with whom it's clear he doesn't agree.  He will listen, think, absorb, respond.  Now, of course, there are times when certain topics are inappropriate, and he abides by those norms, but when the floor is open, no one will ever feel like he's not up front with them.

I am good Talker, both casually and in more formal circumstances.  On the other hand, Joe is a good Communicator.  I am glad he's here for me so that I can continue to grow and learn from him.