“Both things can be true at the same time.”
Her words have been echoing through my mind, circling like a gentle but persistent breeze that won’t settle. And I keep asking myself–can that really be true? Can two things be true at once?
The certainty I once knew
I was raised to believe there was only one truth. I spent much of my early life convinced my perspective was the right one. I felt as though the way I saw the world was correct and tried to help others see things the same way.
But now? There’s so much grey.
Someone I love sees a situation one way. I see it differently. When I step into her shoes, I can understand her perspective. But when I return to my own, I see something else entirely. Two beliefs. Two ways of seeing. Two truths–both valid.
I watch the news and hear one narrative. If I were to change the channel, I could hear another. Neither is a firsthand account. And even if I spoke to those involved, I’d still be hearing stories filtered through their own experiences, perspectives and beliefs. My head hurts trying to sort it out. My heart feels heavy.
Then, I think of the caterpillar I saw inching across my path the other day. It is the same creature as the butterfly that danced around me last summer. Different diets. Different speeds.They see life from two very different vantage points. Yet, they are one in the same being–transformed.
Perhaps two things can be true at once.
I deeply love my loved one, even though we don’t agree. She’s forever cherished in my heart, and I do not believe in being unkind to those who are different from me. I will choose to love who I love and to love all, and for that she may see me as a sinner. She may feel I’ve betrayed her. She believes I can’t speak the truth. But I know my heart. I know my intention. And that is the only truth I can judge with clarity.
A better way forward
If only the world could learn to live with that kind of tension–that kind of grace. If only we could make space for two truths to exist side by side. If only we could make space for two truths to exist side by side. Imagine the compassion. Imagine the conversations that could continue, the relationships that wouldn’t have to end.
Perhaps the greatest truth is love itself–the kind that makes room for both caterpillars and–both cherished, both changed, both true.