The Whole Truth
We cherish the truth,
the whole truth, and nothing less.
Then there is Santa.
I hesitate to draw any conclusions about these thoughts. Too much gray area. Maybe you can help.
Firstly, I know and love many law-abiding, conscientious citizens who believe in upholding the truth, who take the Ten Commandments seriously, who do not believe in the existence of Santa, yet have no compunction about telling their children the legend of Santa. Some even let others know, in no uncertain terms, that they should not shatter the image of Santa for their little ones.
Granted, no harm comes from this action, as far as I know, but do these folk hold the same idea about other untruths that do no harm? Or do we pick and choose what lie suits us to support? And is it a good idea to always tell the truth? Obviously, those who propagate the idea of Santa do not believe so.
Even the Bible makes exceptions to the ninth Commandment. Rahab, in the Book of Joshua, hid spies sent by Joshua and said she did not know where they were when the king’s men came and asked after the spies with intent to kill them. Rahab was rewarded by God for doing this because she saved the good from the evil. So, is it acceptable to lie if it is for the greater good? After all, the ninth Commandment reads “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor” which could be loosely interpreted to mean “do not lie if the lie will hurt others”, but what about if the lie will help others?
Many good, kind people lied to save their Jewish friends during the Holocaust. Was this wrong? If a friend makes something she is proud of and asks your opinion, do you compliment it even if you do not think it is attractive? What about one who asks you if she/he looks fat in a favorite outfit, and you think they do? What do you say then? Especially if this person is insecure and sensitive.
Like I said, too many gray areas. Maybe it is best to follow your heart and say what will do no harm but will lead to a greater good.
Retired? Now what? 