LIAR, LIAR, PANTS ON FIRE!
If we want to admit it or not—we all lie. Let’s take a look at the different types.
White lies, which here in Texas we call fibs. They are the least serious of the group and are usually told to spare someone’s feelings. The last time I asked my husband if a pair of jeans made my butt look big, he replied, “Your butt is big.” A fib would have been welcomed in that instance.
And, who hasn’t claimed to like a gift when they really didn’t?
And what parent hasn’t lied about Santa, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, oh, and let’s not forget that Elf on a Shelf!
Then, there are lies of omission…lying by either omitting facts or failing to correct a misconception.
Fabricated lies (rumors)…telling someone something you don’t know is true for sure.
Lying by exaggeration…enhancing a truth by mixing in untruths, usually to make ourselves look better.
Black lies…misleading someone with the intent of hurting them.
Bald-faced lies…undisguised and everyone knows they are untrue. (according to my research, it’s bald-faced and not boldfaced)
Surveys show people tell an average of 1 or 2 lies a day, but how do we know they aren’t lying about the number of times they lie! So I’m not so sure we can trust those numbers.
So, what do we lie about? Mostly, feelings, preferences, attitudes, and opinions right along with our accomplishments and failures. Then mix in lies about our actions, plans, and whereabouts. Many lies are told in romantic relationships. In all of my novels, someone almost always lies, and it causes big trouble! In my latest novel, due for release in May, the whole story centers around a lie.
As you read this, did you pat yourself on the back because you think you never lie? Think again. Ever had a garage sale and not claimed the proceeds as income on your taxes? Sell a car and not reveal every tiny little thing you know to be wrong with it? Call in sick to work when you weren’t?
Yeah, I thought so.
