Yes. You may hurt his/her feelings. You may make him/her very angry. You may get stuck with a mopey grouch, passive aggressiveness, or misdirected wrath. Therefore, this dilemma is not quite as easy as I would like (and use to suppose). At the same time, its not only possible, but necessary. No one likes to cause problems, but by being truthful we become instruments of grace and we grow in virtue. Jesus was the ultimate "confrontation specialist." So here are a few tips, gathered from various sources.
1. Tell the truth - lying is not an option. Silence or a Swap, on the other hand, may be appropriate.
2. Enter confrontations only after you've prayed. There is always time for a "Come, Holy Spirit."
3. Speak in charity. (Is it for the good of the other person? Am I motivated by charity?)
4. Take responsibility for yourself. "I have a hard time.... Its painful.... I really care, so...."
5. Stay calm; Remember that confrontation is healthy.
6. Listen and don't presume you know everything about the other person.
7. Accept the results. You did your best. You can't control the other person.
and finally
8. Be grateful and responsive when others are TRUTHFUL WITH YOU.
Remember, that when you speak the truth in charity, you are being like Christ! When Christ spoke out, it was not always easy or nice to hear. St. Maximilian Kolbe died for the truth, like so many martyrs of the Church. Be confident, because as Fr. Kolbe said, "Truth is powerful."
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