RULE 8

 Rule 8: Tell the truth - or, at least, don't lie.

Terry and I always enjoy a good murder mystery. Recently we watched a series on Netflix called La Mante. If you don't mind a bit of gore, it was an intriguing show about a series of copy cat murders precipitated by an event that occurred some thirty years earlier.

As I watched the plot unfold, I realized that every such plot begins with a lie. Indeed, a lie or a deception always precedes a descent to the dark side.

Peterson begins this chapter with descriptions of situations showing both the power of telling the truth as well as the damage that results from living a lie. 

But I kept thinking, what about those little white lies that keep the social contract going? For example, when my wife returns from the hair dresser and asks if I like her new cut, the only possible answer is Yes! Is that lying or merely exercising a bit of wisdom? When my bridge partner misplays an easy hand, and I say "Good try partner," is that being disingenuous? One of my granddaughters recently asked me about the authenticity of Santa Claus. There was no way I was ever going to say something to break her Christmas bubble.

As I continued reading the chapter, I realized I was missing the whole point. Peterson is not writing about the effect an untruth has on the receiver of the message although that in itself is not insignificant. Rather, he's focusing on the impact ia lie has on the sender. The author explains how speaking the truth builds one's character. Lying, especially to yourself, undermines it. 

As well, he points out that walking in truth is all about sacrifice. I find that so interesting. 

He writes, "To accept the truth means to sacrifice....An inauthentic person continues to perceive and act in ways his own experience has demonstrated false... And the sins of the inauthentic person compound and corrupt the state."

I think Albert Einstein said it best when he wrote, "I must be willing to give up what I am in order to become what I will be." 

Peterson's book is all about shaping character and goal setting. I'm slowly coming to the realization that in the honest search to find your way, your values, and your truth, you will actually come to merge with the path that God has set out for you all along. 

PS.....And yes, I think white lies are fine. After all, it doesn't cost anything to be nice to someone.