Are you actually interested in the truth or is the story in your head more attractive? For most of us, we pick the story every time. Who wants to deal with any contradictory reality about ourselves.
This is why we make it so difficult to receive the truth. When the reflection does not adhere to the precious image that we hold about ourselves, when there is a disconnect between how we want to see ourself and what is being told to us, we put all energy into resisting. Better to dismiss the truth than have to deal with the unpleasantness of reality.
Think of the occasions when your spouse, friend, boss - or therapist for that matter - has told you something about your behavior that you do not want to hear. What happens then? Do you get defensive and debate it? Do you advidly go on the attack to disprove what is being told to you? Do you just plain ignore and disregard the feedback as if it was never said.
The lack of openness to input from others, particularly input that goes against the grain, demonstrates an attachment to seeing the world only through one's own lens. It leads to an aggressive demand that others cater to MY story. The message is, I get to decide what is reality. I get to control who is allowed to give me feedback and it must happen on my terms only.
What if rather than seeing the truth as intruding, you opened the door to truth as an invited guest. How you respond is your choice afterall. If you are willing to dismantle the self-image long enough, there would be room for real learning, exploring, authentic self-questioning. Yes, then there would be room for actual relating. The choice is yours. Look into what you habitually choose.
