Jonathots Daily Blog
(2981)
In this political season, I find myself thinking about the issue of lying. We point fingers–but at the same time, accept the notion that “all politicians lie.” And I must admit, I’ve told my share of whoppers. So what is the truth about lying? Is it possible to live life without doing it?
Telling the truth is not a virtue.
It’s not like giving to the poor, sacrificing one’s life for your country or even rescuing baby seals from the Canadians.
Telling the truth is an issue of survival. It is essential to accomplishing our goals.
So is the truth built into the natural order?
Yes. Because when the truth is not told, there is no way to adequately proceed with our lives–the premise we’re basing everything on is sand instead of rock.
In other words, someone might turn to me and say, “Do you think you can drive to Albuquerque by next Thursday?”
If my immediate response is yes, without checking the mileage, then I easily make myself a liar when Thursday rolls around and I have not arrived in Albuquerque.
It may sound noble to ask people to tell the truth. But every human being wants to look like he or she is at the top of their game–always putting their best foot forward. This nurtures lying.
The best way to escape lying is to learn the majesty of three responses:
1. I don’t know.
You can avoid about 50% of your lying by being willing to admit that you don’t know. With the availability of the Internet, “I don’t know” does not mean you will remain ignorant. It just means you are not going to lie.
2. I’ve never done it before.
A good portion of our lying is in the arena of the false promotion of our efforts and background. If you’ve never done it before, that does not mean you don’t get to do it now–it just means that those who are asking you to participate should be aware that they are dealing with a novice.
3. I’m not so sure this is something I like.
Politeness contributes to a huge portion of the lying that goes on. If something doesn’t ring your bell, you need to let people know before your bell is “ringless.” This kind of candor will free you of many ridiculous commitments, which you will end up pursuing begrudgingly.
So the first fruits of the truth is to acquire these three intelligent answers.
In doing so, you buy yourself time to learn, consider and be motivated toward enthusiasm.
The producers of jonathots would humbly request a yearly subscription donation of $10 for this wonderful, inspirational opportunity
Jonathan’s Latest Book Release!
PoHymn: A Rustling in the Stagnant
Click here to get your copy now!
Jonathots Daily Blog 