You’ve Lost All Credibility

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Have you ever been in, heard of, or seen a situation where some public official went to great lengths to split hairs on an issue? You know, to the degree that “the truth” somehow becomes vague and relative, instead of firm and unwavering. Well, that really irks me.

I’m not saying I expect the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth – that would be too naive!  But surely there must be some standard in our public discourse and for our public officials that is above splitting hairs and closer to the truth and being truthful.  By splitting hairs to the extreme and basing the “truth” on a bunch of technicalities, it is no wonder some organizations in Hawaii have the reputations which they (unfortunately) but totally and justly deserve.

So to [Title redacted] [Name redacted] I say this:

Yes, you told the truth.  And yes you technically did not tell a lie.  But as far as I’m concerned, you have lost all credibility.

In a small place like Hawaii, with our interlocking business, cultural, and political circles, credibility is not something you want to lose.  Your reputation goes very far here in helping or hindering your efforts.  In business, this can be a career-ender.  In politics, it can lead to uncomfortable conversations – like the ones elected officials have with voters every two years.

I feel it appropriate to again quote Nicole Kidman in the movie Australia, “Just because it is, doesn’t mean it should be.”

So be warned.

(Yes, I know this is indirect, but that’s on purpose.  Just to be clear, someone has lost all credibility with me – and that is not a good thing!)

Mahalo!

Please note:  The views expressed here are mine and mine alone.  While I am employed by and affiliated with organizations and individuals, permission has neither been asked nor granted to write on the topics discussed here.

Tagged as: Capsun, credibility, exbor, Hawaii