Don't Ask, Don't Tell is a military policy that's been around for decades. The premise is for homosexuals to keep their orientation silent. That statement can also apply to all facets of life, especially relationships. You meet someone for the first time, and conversation is flowing. If you're smart, you don't reveal too much on the first date, even if the person is understanding. People can tell you anything to put you at ease, and once you feel comfortable with them, they start to show their true colors. Sadly, you can open up to some people and they use your information against you. My definition of Don't Ask, Don't Tell is simple: Don't ask if you're not ready for the answer. It serves two purposes: 1. It saves the recipient from getting offended, and 2. Prevents you from possibly having your information used against you. Not everyone can be trusted with privileged information, so it's important to enact measures to protect yourself, and others. Let me list a few examples:
1. A couple is going through rough times in their marriage, when one spouse reveals the source of their frustration, which stems from childhood. The receiving spouse isn't ready, even though they want transparency. The lesson: Don't Ask, Don't Tell.
2. Some information can catch you so off guard that you weren't ready for it. Simple resolution: You better be ready for the response. If not, you shouldn't have asked.
