The barn where I board my horse is a very family-oriented atmosphere and people develop close friendships. Sometimes though, those friendships can become strained and it boils down to communication. As humans, we tend to shy away from confrontation and unpleasantness. When it comes to having to relay something to someone that is uncomfortable, people may sometimes try to buffer that "bad news" by telling un-truths or partial truths. It can be viewed as being kind in the immediate situation, but can often backfire when data later comes to light. So, we need to learn to constructively and compassionately be truthful in situations. It benefits the giver and the receiver in the long run.
Look at a horse. A horse is always truthful (sometimes painfully so!). If River is unhappy, she will swish her tail or put her ears back. With a horse, you always know where you stand. So, how can you become a better communicator when things are tough? How can you remain compassionate and constructive when bearing uncomfortable or difficult information? Conversely, as a receiver of this information, how can you accept the data and allow the giver the space to be truthful? All easy in theory, but very hard in practice.
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