"There are three sides to every story: your side, my side, and the truth. And no one is lying. Memories shared serve each differently" (Robert Evans).

I found this quotation the other day, and I thought it was worth repeating. How many times have I thought that I knew the truth or the "whole story" about a situation, until I viewed the issue from someone else's perspective?

I think of my young grandson, Ethan, who complains about his older brother at times, "That's not fair!"

Ethan may have picked up on one of my bad habits—whining about the injustices of life. But I’m still learning that life may not always seem to be fair. And when I look at my blessings in light of some of the other circumstances in this world, I cope with the inequities of my life much better.

Is it "fair" that I live in a country where I have the freedom to worship (or not worship) as I please? Is it "fair" that I was given the opportunity of a higher education—free of charge? Is it "fair" that my family has a roof over our heads, food to eat, and clean water to drink? Are our blessings and opportunities in life "fair" in light of the experiences of our “brothers and sisters”?

Sometimes I'm grateful that my life isn't always fair. If I received what I really deserved in life, I'm not so sure I'd be happy with the results. And that one "truth" makes me grateful for the unmerited favor and blessings I have received from the Hand of God. It also awakens me to the injustices of this world, and reminds me of the dire needs all around me.

My husband Dan often reminds me of one of his favorite phrases at work, where he deals with problems for a living: “No matter how thin I slice the cheese, there are always two sides to it!”

I agree with Dan about the cheese business. But I think there are at least “three sides” to every “story”—yours, mine, and the truth. I pray we all embrace the real "Truth."

"Then you will experience for yourselves the truth, and the truth will free you” (John 8:32 MSG).

Photo/KarenJordan

When you read the quote by Robert Evans about "three sides to every story," what thought came to your mind?