I desire close, genuine relationships. Authentic sharing of my truth, even when I experience pain, must be part of that. I cannot foster close relationships while hiding behind empty words such as �fine� when someone asks how I am.

Giving an Honest Answer to �How are You?�

How do you respond to the question �How are you?� Do you give a truthful answer? Do you sometimes respond �Fine� even when you are not fine? How can answering truthfully help us to build more authentic relationships?

Jori, it depends on who is asking. If it is somebody that I really know, or who I want as a friend, I will tell them how I feel. On the other hand, if I don't know them and don't care, I'll just say, "Fine."

Connie, you are correct that it is important to tailor your answer to the right person!