Mandela apparently said, “People are not born hating other races, they learn to hate”.
I think we would all agree that that is true. Based on that I believe that people are not born liars, they learn to lie. Most parents are shocked and disappointed when their children lie to them. Children don’t learn to lie from peers and politicians. Often children are taught to lie by their parents.
The following story illustrates this fact. The mommy and her six-year-old were travelling on a train. The rule was five years and younger travel for free. Knowing the conductor would make his rounds, the mommy told her son, “If the conductor asks how old you are, say five.” Sure enough, the conductor came around and asked the boy, “How old are you?” Just as he was told, he answered, “Five, sir”.
The mommy saved a bit of money but created a problem. Lying is okay.
Later on the trip the conductor returned on his rounds and asked the boy, “So sonny, you are five?” “Yes, sir,” he replied. “So when do you turn six?” The little boy thought for a moment and answered, “Sir, as soon as I get off of this train”.
Next time you tell your child, “Say daddy is not home”, think about the long-term consequences.
And don’t be surprised if, one day, your child lies to you. Only the truth can set us free!
