“Only enemies speak the truth; friends and lovers lie endlessly”
— Stephen King
Simplified Meaning:
People who do not like you often tell you honest things, even if they are harsh or unpleasant. On the other hand, friends and loved ones may not always tell you the truth. They might avoid saying things that could hurt your feelings or that you don't want to hear. For example, if you ask a close friend about a bad haircut, they might say it looks fine so they don’t upset you, even if they think it looks bad. However, someone who is not your friend might bluntly tell you it looks terrible. This wisdom suggests being aware that those who care about us might sometimes hide the truth to protect us, which can lead to misunderstandings. By realizing this, you can seek out honest feedback when you need it and be more understanding of why friends might not always be completely truthful.