On occasion, we lie as a form of self-defense. Most often, this takes place when one is being psychologically probed or invaded by another person. And some lie because they feel powerless or inferior. To some extent, lying can be fostered by one's social context. I finally figured out that being truthful was dangerous.
Parents can punish wrong behavior but still honor a child for speaking the truth.
People in authority can place more value on honesty and less on their pride. And when someone takes the risk of sharing her or his personal truth, we can find a way to listen, to respect, and to provide emotional sanctuary. Appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on May 1, 2001. Journal Sentinel Inc. All rights reserved.