Let's tell the truth to people. When people ask, 'How are you?' have the nerve sometimes to answer truthfully. You must know, however, that people will start avaoiding you because, they, too, have knees that pain them and heads that hurt and they don't want to know about yours. But think of it this way: If people avoid you, you will have more time to meditate and do fine research on a cure for whatever truly afflicts you.
In this quote, Maya Angelou emphasizes the importance of honesty and openness in communication with others. She suggests that sometimes we should have the courage to tell the truth about how we truly feel, even if it might lead to social distancing or avoidance by others. This honesty can be difficult but ultimately beneficial, as it encourages genuine connections and self-awareness.
Angelou also presents a optimistic perspective on potential consequences of honesty, implying that if people turn away, it provides more opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth. She advocates for embracing truthfulness as a way to better understand ourselves and address our inner struggles, even if it means facing solitude for a time.