Fuzzy lines

I work in the world of public affairs. There is much debate in our circles about “spin” versus “telling the truth.” Those who spin try to extract the one shred of good news to soften the bad news. 

And who can forget the famous Iraqi Information minister who spoke on television during the  “Shock and Awe,”  of Operation Iraqi Freedom that “no, there were no bombs falling,” that the entire air war was a “Hollywood stunt perpetuated by American imperialists.” “Let the infidels shudder. They are in complete retreat.  Be assured Baghdad is safe, secure and great.”

There’s a lesson to be learned here for all of us. Truth matters.
In the middle of the darkest night, Truth Matters.
In the midst of your deepest crisis, Truth Matters
In spite of your past, despite your failings and sins, Truth Matters.

Business deals are done with a handshake and a wink of the eye, both parties knowing that the truth has been shaded. Couples stand at the altar, pledging their deepest allegiance forever, knowing full well that maybe they might try it for a year or two. Employees fill out time cards and sales reports and productivity figures, stretching the numbers to meet expectations.

When the lines get fuzzy, you will pay a price. I know mine has been heavy.

President Abraham Lincoln used a particular brain teaser to make a point with his advisors while discussing Emancipation. He asked them “How many legs would a sheep have if you called its tail a leg?” They would meekly respond “Five.”

“Wrong! You are mistaken. The sheep would still have four legs. Calling something a leg doesn’t make it so,” Lincoln would respond.