We all have that one friend -- before I keep going I have to say that I love that phrase. With saying that one little bit, you instantly have the image of one of the people in your friend group and I didn't even have to finish the sentence. I've always just found that fun to think about.
Anyway, back on topic, we all have that one friend who says whatever comes to their mind and really don't mind if it could be considered out of bounds. Or to be very plain about it, we have that blunt friend who really just doesn't give a shit. If right off the top of your head you can't think of that person in your own circle of friends, either A- your circle may need a little more variety or B- you are that friend. And you know it.
Now this, despite what some may say, is not a bad thing. Now, I don't want to say that the world needs us, that would be a vast over exaggeration and all together true, but most social circles need the blunt friend because we offer a unique perspective on life. In our society of being polite and correct to those we speak to, we often sugar coat the what we are thinking as to not offend, well, anyone. And that is where being blunt comes into play. The blunt friend is will say out loud what most will keep in their heads and will do so unapologetically. Because while sometimes yes we may cross the line, it is better to live a life where you don't regret saying something you wanted to than keeping silent.
Now, I am not known for being overly nice. In fact, I'm primarily known for being an asshole. I am quite blunt and honest in how I feel about people or my views on life around me and I am not sorry for how I feel about these things. But the thing is, as was recently said by Russel Crowe in an interview, "I would rather be upfront than nice." Sure, I could be nice and keep what I'm thinking to myself, but other than the fact that it would be "nicer" who does it help? I have now not said what I meant to and have in turn kind of lied to whoever I was talking to.
As this has been read, it can be inferred that I mean to be blunt in only the negative ways, and I don't mean it in that aspect. Our blunt friends will be the ones who tell us to stop beating around the bush and tell our crush how we feel. They will be the ones who tell us to get off our ass and get to class. Our blunt friend will be our not-so-angelic conscience telling us what we should be doing because they are looking out for what's best for us at heart. Yes, the blunt friend is loud, brass, crude and an epithet of other words that all basically mean brazen snark. Say what you will but we all know that our blunt friend will be the first person their when we need something. They care enough to tell you exactly how they feel.
We need the blunt friend to keep us balanced. And who knows, we all could possibly have this quality in us, depending on which friend we are talking to. And if you are the blunt friend, you know that at times being this role can be difficult. However, no matter was difficulties arise in how you share your views on life, you are appreciated. Remember that.
Yes, we may not be the nicest people, but maybe we don't have to be. I'd rather be upfront than nice.
