Why are we so reluctant to speak our minds? I find it hilarious that we describe or define some folks as "someone who doesn't pull punches," or someone who's "not afraid to tell it like it is." That kills me...not afraid. People actually fear telling the truth. Is it then safe to say that those people fear the truth? Maybe.
Why is it so much easier to lie? Rather, why do we think it is? Have you ever tried living with a lie? I have. They make terrible roommates. Dirty laundry everywhere. Perpetual guilt trips. It's so not worth it. I'm of the ilk that both telling and learning the truth should be done in one swift motion. Like ripping off a band-aid or jumping into a pool. Sure, there's a brief sting or chill, but then it's over, and things get easier. Life gets easier.
On that note, let's explore that second cliche.
If the pool represents life--bear with me, fellow cynics--then I propose there are three types of people out there: Those who dip their toes first; those who cannonball; and those who steer clear of the water altogether. Within those three groups are two subsets:
Toe Dippers: Practical/Timid
Cannon Ballers: Selfless/Selfish
Land Lovers: Once-bitten/Brainwashed
Toe Dippers:
Practical - They're going into that pool. Hell, they're looking forward to it. Maybe not today and not right away, but sometime indeed, dammit. Count on it.
Timid - Their curiosity is weaker than their fear. When they dip, it's with uncertainty, not anticipation. Even when they're finally in, they never get comfortable, and they always stay in the shallow end.
Cannon Ballers:
Selfless - I want to enjoy myself, but not at the expense of others' enjoyment.
Selfish - I'm jumping in, no matter who gets wet. Outta the way, shitbags, here I come.
Land Lovers:
Once-bitten - And that's all it took. Never again. That pool is a death-trap. I won't even get in the tub. But maybe someday. Maybe.
Brainwashed - That pool is evil! EVIL, I tells ya! How do I know? It's what I heard. I've been told my whole life there was no lifeguard on duty, so I suggest we all stay indoors.
Each group's subset is either positive and beneficial for growth; or damaging and stunting. Even the Once-Bitten Land Lover may find the courage to try again. As much as I'd love to consider myself a Selfless Cannon Baller, the truth is I've been a Practical Toe-Dipper my entire life. But I'm due for a promotion. Overdue, actually.
It's at this point where you might expect me to encourage everyone to "dive into life," (ewww) but here's the thing: The pool is only so big, and I rely on the Land Lovers and the Timid Toe-Dippers to keep the deep end relatively empty and urine-free. Furthermore, society has a way of rejecting and eventually forcing the Selfish Cannon Ballers into finding another swimmin' hole.
As far as skinny-dipping? I'm all for it. Just as long as I can take my trunks off after I get in the water.
Fear this (points to crotch),
mario
p.s. any/all comments must contain equally-moronic water metaphors.
