Discretion

The fire captain was noted for always having a crew with high morale. I asked him if he had any secrets.

He said, "There's one rule that's made a big difference. We never joke about family or the people firefighters are dating. Firefighters are notorious jokers but I've found that when you get into certain areas, it is too easy to cross the line."

He's right. There are certain subjects that are just not worth the risk. Some may argue that if you've known people for years then any matter should be open for discussion but that goes against hard experience. Many of us have seen friendships weaken or dissolve over an argument or jest that was truly unnecessary.

There will always be exceptions who can maul each other in verbal combat and then go out for drinks afterwards and yet the case for discretion is strong. The Sixties gave us the dubious idea that any buzz between the ears deserves to be released but I doubt if complete candor even worked on the communes.

Let it all hang out? Please don't.

We need more people in the workplace who are willing to embrace the beauty of the unexpressed thought.