Perception and Reality

Some say perception is reality.
Some say perception is more important than reality.
Some say perception is more important than truth.

Nobody is an island, the saying goes.
We all live in our own networks of families, friends, colleagues, acquaintances and communities.
Therefore we are highly affected and impacted by those around us.
and in our own ways we are also affecting those around us.  yes, we are affecting the world around us.

I've met people who are so engrossed with managing perception that the truth no longer matter to them.
It's how people perceive them and their action (or inaction) that dictates their lives.  Or at least how they perceive people will perceive them and their action (or inaction).  Usually, the lives of such people are characterised by highly charismatic and effective facades that over time tend to disintegrate into total opposite models which lack integrity, consistently inconsistent and deviously troublesome.

Unfortunately, to these people, truth and principles means nothing.  While truth allows for simpler and more consistent living, it's never seen as important at all.  In fact, truth and concept of being truthful are often seen as inconvenient burden and hindrance to achieving ones aims in life.

Doesn't truth matter?  Doesn't it matter most?

Speak the truth even if it's painful.  Not matter what.
Honesty is the best policy.
If you tell the truth, then you don't have to remember anything....
Among others....these are reminder of the value of upholding the truth vs managing perception.