Behind the Mask

Some of the characteristics I've always valued in others are honesty, sincerity, and openness. In contrast, just this week, in the Hosea study, the characteristics of the Israelites emphasized, were their lies and deceitfulness. I know that when I encounter those who hide behind "masks", I find it disappointing, for it dispels my trust in them. There are many types of masks people hide behind. There are masks of false sincerity, deceit, stoicism, etc. No matter what kind of masks people wear, they are essentially trying to hide the TRUTH. At this moment, I can specifically think of three people who have broken the trust I have in them, because of the masks they put on:

• The first puts on so many different masks that all I see is mass contradiction; and I no longer believe anything that person says. I will listen to the facts that can be verified; but, have to ignore anything related to opinion, because I don't really know if it is true. I have come to view this person as someone who lacks integrity and is not to be trusted.

• The second is someone who may have started off on the wrong foot and could possibly be trying to remedy it. However, how this person is currently contrasts so greatly with what they previously said; that, I'm no longer sure whether what this person is saying now is truly sincere. I'm trying to give this person the benefit of the doubt; and to accept as much as possible; but, it will take time to rebuild the trust.

• The third is someone I was sad to see wear a mask. I thought we had the type of friendship that the person would feel safe enough to be themselves, and not have to put on a mask. Yet, I found that under the guise of interest in something else, this person seemed to be hiding ulterior motives.

Rare is the relationship in which both people are fully honest, open, and sincere with one another. When a person is fortunate enough to find themselves in such a relationship, it should be treasured.