The second type of person a narcissist cannot tolerate is the truth-teller. When someone steps up to them and says, “You’re in the wrong,” or points out their misinterpretation or insensitivity, narcissists become highly defensive. Truth is a threat to them because they are deeply invested in being right, in being the standard-bearer of correctness. They cannot handle someone pointing out their mistakes or presenting an alternative perspective.
These two types of people are a challenge for narcissists. They view diversity as a rejection and refuse to tolerate individuals who force them to step outside of their comfort zones. Narcissists are transactional—they engage with others only to the extent that those people prop up their biases. When someone reveals differences, the narcissist interprets it as a personal attack, and they react with criticism, imperatives, judgment, and even ridicule.
Ultimately, narcissists are not capable of genuine love. Love requires laying down one’s ego, allowing for freedom, patience, kindness, and acceptance of others’ frailties. Narcissists cannot do this because their relationships are based on conformity to their standards, not mutual respect and care. They will not tolerate those who speak truth or live out love because, at their core, narcissists embody an anti-love mindset.
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