A DAILY MESSAGE

Hokitika Guardian, 22 April 1929, Page 1

A DAILY MESSAGE

WHAT’S WRONG WITH CANDOUR? Tjih pernor of keeping ;i tight roin upon oiio’s emotions and 'feelings is so generally admired and extolled that, under the force of this ruling convention, nobody, says what he feels—that is, no really “ nice ” person does. Should one do so, lie is designated “ impossible,” and his frankness is misnamed “ bad form ” ! Dislike of an argument in commercial, domestic, or social life has reached the point of absurdity—-and of gravity.

A plain argument on plain fact is misnamed “ a scene,” in consequence of which it has become a greater social sin to tell a man that lie is a liareven when be is a liar—than to tell a lie, or to act one. Indeed, one is more likely to .be forgiven if one slanders an absent mar than if one challenges the veracity o'' one who is present. The former metho ' will not provoke an argument, and i! is the argument, and not the truth that is the major consideration of the apostles of peace at any price.

No surrender of principle is consul erod too great to avert unpleasantness. To tell a lie may he good form; but an argument—never. 7 bat is ihe A.idinal sin of the social code. I lie ability to suppress all trace o't feoiing, adroitness in politely avoiding the issue, dexterity in shuffling courteously away from the danger zone, willingness to sacrifice principle lor peace, and to exchange convictions lor social courtesies is becoming the ball mark of “ nice ” society.

The gravity r.«f this tendency is tlint frankness, candour, directness, honesty. suth,„aud courage, are put at a discount, while' deceit, dissembling, evasion, dishonesty, lying, and cowar dice are put at a premium ... in social relations. This cannot be;,lor the good of society collectively or individually, and. alter all, it is unnecessary. —M. PUESTON STANLEY.