|
 |
Along Life’s Way
Honest?
By Lois E. Wilson
On the TV reality show “Judge Judy” during some of the trials, a
witness showing unease may start testimony by saying, “If you want me
to be honest.” Judge Judy quickly injects, “No! I want you to lie to
me. Of course, you are to be honest!” Later, if she finds testimony
differs from the sworn written statement of the witness, she will
inquire, “Which is the truth?”
Before testifying, a witness is given an oath which usually contains
“to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.” It is
taken very seriously by the law. To do otherwise, one might incur the
offense of perjury.
Alexander Pope asserted: “An honest man’s the noblest work of God.”
Publilius Syrus said: “God looks at the clean hands not the full ones.”
Education to the value of honesty begins or should begin early in the
life of a child. To make them capable of being honest will make their
lives easier and more self-rewarding.
This Aretino quote might be said to a child: “I love you and because I
love you; I would sooner have you hate me for telling you the truth
than adore me for telling you lies.”
We expect and hope for nothing less than honesty in all our daily
dealings with others. They expect the same from us. “The highest
compact we can make with our fellow is, ‘Let there be truth between us
two for evermore.’” (Emerson)
There is a saying, “If you tell the truth, you don’t have to have a
good memory.” Judge Judy often puts that thought to a witness if she
catches them with inconsistencies or suspects one has lied. She also
notices if a woman’s chest is getting red—as she believes this often
indicates deceit or untruth.
George Washington stated: “I hope I shall always possess firmness and
virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all
titles, the character of an ‘Honest Man.’”
The old maxim: “Honesty is the best policy” proves true. It doesn’t
require or cost monetary premiums. One does not have to wait to receive
its benefits. If you exhibit honesty—your benefits come all through
your lifetime. God is the insurer your virtue of honesty is a
preexisting condition that is covered after death. This
Thanksgiving, thank God for all your blessings.
|
|
|
|
