Tell the Truth Day - July 7th

June 28, 2011

Where I came from, a person’s reputation was as good as his word. But these days, telling the truth seems to have changed its status in our culture.  A lie isn’t a lie anymore; it’s a half-truth, a white lie- as if giving it another name changes its true meaning.

On July 7th, everyone is challenged to go a full 24 hour without being dishonest or telling a lie. Just think, one day out of the year has been set aside to encourage people to tell the truth.  I know sometimes the truth is just plain problematic and inconvenient, and yes we justify telling half-truths.  How often have we justified telling less than the absolute truth as a charitable act?  After all, we don’t want to hurt someone’s feelings. Like when the boss asks you if you like her idea. Let’s face it, she’s your boss and you don’t want to rock the boat. So what do you tell her?

Come on, do we really have to wait for a National Tell the Truth Day to be honest? Let’s remember what Mark Twain said “If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.” I suggest we elect to tell the truth with true genuineness, starting by being honest with ourselves. Just imagine a world where nobody lies or does anything dishonest. I think I am reaching for a high standard, but why not.

Deborah J.
Blue Springs North Branch