By Ashley Prisk
RECENTLY, I was discussing the concept of truth with a group of teenagers.
We began by looking at how different perspectives shape the way we read the Bible and this starting point led us into a more thoughtful discussion.
The difference between subjective and objective truth is complex.
At first, we considered subjective truth as the more compassionate truth.
It’s the idea that what is true for me might not be true for you and that is okay.
We can agree to disagree.
But as the discussion unfolded, we realised that this kind of truth doesn’t always lead to compassion.
More often, it leads to division.
In our modern world, when someone expresses a subjective truth that doesn’t align with the majority, they’re often silenced.
Some choose to gang up, shut down the conversation, or simply stop engaging with those who think differently.
Instead of creating space for dialogue, subjective truth can become a reason to exclude.
Objective truth is factual.
It exists whether we like it or not. But even this is complicated.
Our worldviews shape how we interpret facts.
My understanding of truth grows out of my Catholic faith and the way it forms how I see the world, which can lead to convictions not always shared by the broader society.
So how do we find common ground when our truths seem so different?
The answer, I believe, lies in our shared humanity.
Instead of trying to agree on the big questions like who created the world or when life begins, we need to start with what we hold in common.
Human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, a truth that transcends religion and culture.
It’s a place where we can begin.
Teenagers today are facing serious issues that challenge both subjective and objective truth.
Questions around identity, mental health, relationships and morality are part of their everyday lives.
Parents, schools, health professionals, and communities are grappling with how to respond.
But at the heart of it all, we must remember our shared humanity.
Jesus didn’t cancel people, nor did He avoid hard conversations. He met people where they were.
He spoke truth, but always with love.
He challenged injustice, but never lost sight of the person in front of Him.
When Jesus stood before Pilate and was asked, “What is truth?” He didn’t back down.
He remained steadfast in His mission, even though it led to the cross, a courage that is both rare and necessary.
Speaking objective truth takes courage, especially when society disagrees.
It’s not about shouting louder but staying grounded in love.
For parents and teachers, this means creating safe spaces for hard questions and showing that truth and compassion can coexist.
When disagreement arises, resist the urge to shut down or retaliate.
Keep the door open, keep the conversation going, and remind young people that disagreement doesn’t mean disconnection.
Often, the most powerful witness to truth is not winning the argument but remaining present.
We live in a time where truth is contested, and compassion is often conditional.
But the way forward is not to choose one over the other. It is to hold both together.
To teach truth with love and to model respectful dialogue.
Truth is not a weapon, it is a path to freedom.
As Jesus said, “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
