Wow, great story-telling, compelling writing, and resonant point. Thank you for this, lots to digest here.
I'll add that truth is a funny thing. Consider, a truth said by a certain person, in a certain way, at a certain moment in time may fall flat. But that same truth, coming from an alternate source, with a refined delivery, at a different moment in time can spark true change.
For me, this is the most interesting part of truth, because I may have high-value truths at my fingertips, just itching to be given to people who clearly need it, but I'm aware that life hasn't yet given me the timing, delivery, or perhaps even the person needed to transmit it effectively.
It took me longer than I'd like to admit to realize that the effectiveness (and painfulness) of truth, is directly tied to the 'readiness' of both the giver of it, and the receiver of it.
I don't believe this challenges anything you've written, because I get, and agree with, your overall point... but I do hope my comment adds some value or sparks a deeper exploration of truth somehow.
Thanks for a fantasic read and visuals, @nonameslefttouse!
It's funny you mention that. Under another post where I found myself in a discussion about something else I said:
Some like to be offensive and obnoxious with their version of 'truth' then can't seem to figure out why it goes nowhere. And it's typically due to the fact their intention isn't to be helpful.