There is a wondrous thrill in playing on the edges of transgression. The tension between knowing what no one else does and then the revelation publicly of a long held secret.
Is it words or actions that bring the most excitement in our lives? Well in my view many words can be spoken, however, until there is action nothing can become manifest. As we “speak” our lives into being, we too must take action, otherwise these words are lost to the wind.
I have been reflecting a lot this month on how words and action align to create our lived experiences. Especially when we are caught in a transgression. How many lies can we spin before we are fully found out? In how many places can we hide? Eventually the light creeps in. What does so much deceit do to the heart? Would we rather commit unspeakable acts rather than utter our truth…and what is truth when the expression of it is involuntary?
One promise I made to myself long ago was to always be brutally truthful with myself. To maintain my integrity by always aligning my words to my actions. It is not an easy path, yet one that keeps my conscience clear. How can I teach this strategy to my children I wonder? Children instinctively lie when they are of a certain age. I noticed around ages two – four children start lying. A natural developmental phase as they become more aware of themselves and their own minds. The motivating factor being the fear of being caught out, of being outcast perhaps? Or simply not wanting to be in trouble. At some point we must own up to our mistakes and take responsibility. Even as an adult this is difficult. Casting blame on others is so much easier. We are always looking for cause and effect to our actions.
And yet, it is in the silence of personal reckoning where the real daring begins. Telling the truth—first to ourselves and then to others—takes extraordinary courage. It’s easy to wear masks, to perform the version of ourselves that fits neatly within expectations. But truth has a vibration. It resonates through the body, and when it’s denied, it festers in the soul. I’ve learned that the most radical act of love I can offer—to myself, to my family, to the world—is to speak the truth and act in accordance with it.
So here I am, daring to live transparently, even when it’s uncomfortable. I am reminded that truth is not a destination but a daily practice. Sometimes I falter, sometimes I flinch, but I return. Because ultimately, truth isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being real. And in that realness, I find peace. I find freedom. I find myself. This is the ultimate lesson I can give my children. And hope that one day they too will have the courage to face themselves. In full vulnerability and find themselves there in the space between truth or dare.
Nazanin Marashian 