Truth is an important virtue which is of great importance to me. Truth serves as a bedrock upon which justice and love are built. Without truth, justice cannot prevail, and love becomes just another word or misguided. To act justly and project a love which is genuine, means we must understand what is true and real, both about ourselves and the world around us.
Our search for truth may also come from a desire to live authentically and with integrity. The truth is what grounds us in reality, giving us clarity and purpose.
Truth can also be liberating as in the biblical phrase “The truth will set you free” (John 8:32) and this resonates with many of us. When you discover the truth, whether in personal matters or broader issues, there is a sense of freedom, clarity and empowerment.
The importance of truth can also be tied to our sense of moral obligation. In a world where misinformation and falsehoods can lead to harm or injustice, we must feel a responsibility to uphold and defend the truth as a form of service to others.
In the Carmelite tradition, truth is seen as a reflection of God’s nature. St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross both emphasize the importance of stripping away illusions and false attachments to encounter the “naked” truth of God, which brings transformation. This journey is often marked by self-knowledge, humility, and a deepening awareness of God’s presence in all things.
Therefore, truth is not just a moral obligation, it is a path to living fully, freely, and in sync with the world around us. In the world today filled with half-truths and misinformation, the pursuit of truth is both a personal and collective responsibility.
