Question: Is it wrong to share painful personal information with others...?

(Posted by: jack on 2008-05-09 05:28:41)

Posted by: cc on 2008-05-09, 05:34:23

If its your significant other, family, counselor or a close friend I would say no! However if its a complete stranger it might be awkward. I wouldn't necessary say wrong though, just depends on the circumstances!

Posted by: Too Silly on 2008-05-09, 05:34:32

Depends how close they are... FOR EXAMPLE: I would not tell my grocery clerk that my mother just died or if I was dying of a terminal illness.... That kind of information is on a need to know basis only. It makes the person on the receiving end extremely uncomfortable if they don't know you very well.

Posted by: Big Woof on 2008-05-09, 05:35:50

Not if you have someone who is willing to listen. Letting it out is a good thing.

Posted by: Mercedes on 2008-05-09, 05:50:01

It isn't wrong, it's just that you should be 'selective' with whom you choose. A lot of people have not had such experiences and cannot relate. Others just don't feel they know a person 'that well' to get involved with personal things. You need to 'read' the person before going forward. Also, think about what you 'expect' from the individual. You may be putting too heavy of a load on someone and their reaction may leave you cold. Also, gage by what that persom shares with you. If they open up, in depth, then they are telling you they trust you. Trust is a very important factor in sharing. Be wise.

Posted by: Tim Br on 2008-05-09, 06:11:27

Never say things you don't want repeated.

Posted by: Dr weasel on 2008-05-09, 11:13:08

No, it isn't wrong. But there are protocols that must be observed. You would never volunteer your neighbor to participate in an event without his express consent. The same is true for sharing your personal burdens. It is always prudent to ask a person if they would be willing to walk through your valley with you.

Posted by: I'm not that smart. on 2008-05-09, 12:12:18

If it would harm you or them then remain silent, even if it just brings up bad memories too much, but if it brings you closer together and better, happier people because of it, then it is almost a sacred thing to do. One is very demeaning, the other very uplifting - err on the side of caution because pain is 10 times more virulent than joy, but once joy is perfected in such thing then it is infinitely stronger... A person may remain silent their whole life and still grow in strength and wisdom, confidence and love, while someone with too loose a mouth will almost always cause much pain for themselves and others. When the time comes, speak, but not before. God bless.

Posted by: clever girl on 2008-05-09, 17:56:50

Sometimes sharing a story with a total stranger can be very healing. I consider myself very private outside my family and close friends. I was traveling many years ago and dumped my whole life story on this very nice older gentleman. It was a difficult time in my life and he just listened and I felt better!