Bearisgray says it well....I cannot tell a person what they want to hear if I do not agree; and do give an explanation to explain why I disagree. I don't want to be or have a phoney friend.
Yes, I have lost a friendship for being honest and also love people being honest with me even if it hurts. Honesty is helpful if we listen with an open mind. I don't want any friends who butter things up thinking they need to in order to be my friend. Making excuses for one's actions doesn't make their actions right when they are only searching for positive justification.
I believe if somoeone walks out of your life because you are truthful, then say "good-bye" with no regrets. You can feel sad at losing a friend; but be proud of who you are for being yourself.
I can feel that this topic has stirred up a little emotion; but that is ok. I am enjoying reading everyone's responses. Am also interested in reading how some of you can chose to selectively say nothing if you disagree. Some people are honest to a fault, and that is how I describe myself lol.
EXAMPLE:
I recently went to the coast with a cousin and a friend for the last hoorah before cold weather. There was an ice cream booth offering samples for 25 cents and advertising lobster ice cream. Well, of course we had to try it!! When the owner asked for my opinion....I responded that it was "unique" and I definitely would not want a cone of it. Immediately, my cousin appologized for me and my honest response. I didn't like her doing that and the owner even spoke up and said "I like the honesty. It is fun listening to what people have to say about it". Then he went on to tell us there are 3 whole lobsters in each batch. I didn't feel badly about my opinion, but angered that my cousin felt the need to apologize for me.