Ellen M. Lerner
3 min readOct 20, 2021

When Do You Know That You Shouldn’t Voice Out Your Thoughts Or Opinion?

When your thoughts or your opinions could permanently damage a relationship you must think long and hard if it is worth it.

Some people absolutely must say what they are thinking at all times, regardless of the fact that a friendship/relationship could be forever ruined because of it, their words are simply more important than salvaging a good thing.

If something is truly wrong and there is no denying it, I suppose I can understand, but if it is something that can be discussed gently and with kindness, you must weigh out which is more important…the relationship or your thought at that given moment.

Some things need to be said. Some relationships are toxic and must end, but if the good outweighs the bad, you have to think about the consequences. Do I run the risk of losing someone who genuinely cares for me because I have an issue that in the big scheme of things is rather small….

Only you can come to this conclusion, but what a shame to end a relationship over something that could be worked out. Discussed. Rationally and calmly with respect and kindness. That is what a good relationship is based on, so as I said, if the good outweighs the bad, sometimes you need to hold your tongue in order to save a friendship.

Again, I'm not speaking of an abusive or toxic relationship, but a normal relationship with its ups and downs but deep down you know you would miss this person if you said what you absolutely needed to say in that moment. You must decide not only if it's worth it, but if they are, because a good friend doesn't come along every day. Even in the heat of the moment it's important to remind ourselves of this fact.

Sometimes things have a way of working themselves out. Relationships take work. All relationships. But if you want this person to remain in your life you must think long and hard before you say something that you simply can not take back once it is out there.

Everyone has a voice and our voices are valid, but friendships are rare. Only you will know and hopefully you will make the right choice because for me, I would much rather hold my tongue than run the risk of losing a person I can never get back based on my pride, my ego or what I perceive to be priorities that when you stop and think about it, are not even close to being at the top of my list of priorities…

Boundaries are important. But do not confuse an indisputable boundary with a tiny pet peeve that can be worked out with a simple discussion…you just have to decide if it is worth it. I hope you make the right decision.

Ellen M. Lerner
Ellen M. Lerner

Written by Ellen M. Lerner

My name is Ellen. I am a Composer. A Pianist and Vocalist. A Student. A Writer and most of all...I'm a Survivor.

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