Cruel to be kind

Do you think if we were all brutally honest at all times, that we would be better off?

For example, 

you're very good friend gets a hair cut, it is so awful, you think it would be more beneficial for her to shave it off and start again. 

Do you say exactly what you think? 

Or do you smile and nod, trying to hide the sheer disgust?

Its a choice that we've all made on numerous occasions, and not really thought twice about.

I know that its the easier option to smile, nod and swiftly change the subject, but is that the right thing to do? 

My thoughts on this derive from being on the receiving end of this scenario (with different content, my hair is alright) and not really knowing what the other person thinks. I think i would rather have the cruel to be kind option... but i can understand why it would be hard for the other person to deliver that news.

Most of us can sense when we are being lied to, and thats one of the most frustrating positions to be in. It can almost create an unwarranted sense of paranoia and distrust.

Personally, I would rather the harsh truth...because either way, you're going to feel hurt. So feeling hurt for the right reasons would feel more justified. 

So the long and short of it is, If you want to say something to me, say it....