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Offer your perspective on radical honesty versus gentle deception, where do you usually draw that line?

August 2
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Answer Summary

Members engaged in a rich discussion about radical honesty versus gentle deception, with most agreeing that truth is generally the better... Read more

Members engaged in a rich discussion about radical honesty versus gentle deception, with most agreeing that truth is generally the better path, especially in serious or romantic relationships. Several members shared personal stories about disclosing their HIV status openly, describing moments of vulnerability that led to unexpected acceptance, empowerment, and even positive ripple effects in their communities. A recurring theme was that honesty works best when delivered with tact and care, and that being hurt by truth for a short time is far better than the lasting damage of feeling betrayed by a lie.

A myHIVteam Member

Usually when I am interested in someone I try to work my way up to the truth ....

I mean mentioning that I have to take a daily pill isually gives folks a clue but if not then when I can get them to someplace where I do not have to shout and across my lips the words of " I am Poz and stayed with my late husband 32 years and he never sero-converted ( caught it ( if they question the term sero-convert )) .

Then once the initial shock wears off the ball is in their court if they stay or use some excuse to " get the hell away from me " ....

August 5
A myHIVteam Member

Honesty - period
I’d rather be hurt for 5 minutes than feel betrayed when I find out later the truth

You ask me a question be ready for the answer - cause you may not like it and that’s on you not me …

August 3
A myHIVteam Member

As for myself I would rather tell someone the truth but when telling the truth tact and diplomacy is always needed because it's not always what you say , but how you say it. But behind the truth also offer some encouragement as to not open up their insecurities. Especially when dealing with the heart .

August 8
A myHIVteam Member

Considering how sad and unpleasant the discrimination is after a positive test result, we must not lie or ignore our illness, even if we are left alone and isolated.

Considerando lo triste y desagradable por la discriminación ante el resultado positivo,no hay que mentir ni ignorar nuestra enfermedad.si bien quedamos solos y aislados

August 2
A myHIVteam Member

Personally, I consider myself brutally honest, I rarely lie to preserve someone's feelings, and I do contemplate how it may hurt someone's feelings but I rarely worry about it!

August 2

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A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Montebello, CA