We've all been there—sitting across the boardroom table, listening intently to the person speaking, and then you notice it: something in their teeth. You pause. Do you say something? Do you risk the awkwardness? Or do you let them go about their day unaware, because it feels easier?

That small moment holds a much deeper truth.

In life—especially in leadership, in relationships, in growth—we often become aware of things in someone’s “teeth” that go far beyond food. Blind spots. Character gaps. Repeating patterns. Ways of thinking or behaving that might be limiting their impact, damaging relationships, or quietly eroding trust.

And yet, many of us hesitate to speak up. We tell ourselves, “It’s not my place,” or “They won’t take it well.” We prioritize comfort over clarity. Silence over support. But real care isn’t always comfortable—it’s intentional.

Spiritual and emotional maturity require the courage to hold up a mirror for someone else—and the humility to let others do the same for us. That’s not criticism. That’s commitment to growth. It’s the kind of feedback rooted not in control or superiority, but in a sincere desire to see someone become more aligned with who they were created to be.

But let’s take it even deeper: this isn’t just about leadership. It’s about being human.

Because the truth is—at one point or another—we’re all going to have something in our teeth. Or toilet paper on our shoe. Or a tag sticking out. Or an attitude that’s off. None of us are exempt from the occasional misstep or moment of being out of alignment. That’s the nature of being human. Imperfect. In progress. Dependent on grace.

So let’s normalize helping each other clean up. Not in shame. Not in judgment. But in quiet solidarity. Because the moment you help someone today might be the same kind of moment you need someone to help you tomorrow. And that kind of mutual care builds cultures of trust, safety, and true growth.

Being able to say, “There’s something in your teeth,” with love, clarity, and respect, isn’t an act of embarrassment—it’s an act of service. And being able to hear it without defensiveness is one of the greatest signs of emotional intelligence.

We can’t grow if no one’s allowed to be honest with us. We can’t lead well if we don’t make it safe for truth to be shared. And we can’t expect deep trust to be built on shallow interaction.

So this month, here’s your leadership nudge and personal challenge: If you see something—say it, kindly. If someone says something to you—receive it, openly.

Growth starts with the person in the mirror. And when we’re willing to check ourselves and help reflect truth for others, we all rise. The whole world gets better—one honest, grace-filled moment at a time.

Would you want someone to tell you if you had something in your teeth?

Media Recommendation

Man in the Mirror, Michael Jackson: We should all make it a priority to examine ourselves and look for areas where we can make a positive change. This helps the whole world.

Until next time,

Carrie

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit godmadedirt.substack.com