RobArt Penguin

Daily writing prompt

What’s the trait you value most about yourself?

View all responses

My grandmother described my father as “honest to a fault,” because he was honest no matter the consequences, like getting himself in trouble when he admitted to wronging or offending girls he dated. Over the years, I have discovered that my father’s model rubbed off on me. In many writing classes fellow writers would express appreciation for the honesty in my writing. The feedback was a surprise to me because I wrote what came naturally. Out and about an occasional clerk is surprised when I tell them they charged too little or missed an item. I’m not sure if they admire me or think I’m a chump for missing a windfall. I can’t say I reach my father’s heights in absolute honesty; I’m a diplomat. In my view, a little nondisclosure is not dishonest; it’s smart or even kind. My father might not approve of my lapses from his sacred virtue, but I have more friends.