Not too long ago, NBC news anchor Brian Williams shared an amazing story about being in a helicopter when it was shot down during the invasion of Iraq in 2003. The only problem with the story was the crew on the helicopter that was shot down had no recollection of Williams being on their aircraft or on the others flying in formation with it.
When Williams was confronted about his story, he ultimately admitted that he was not on that helicopter. His misstep cost him his coveted evening anchor seat.
Williams isn’t the only one who struggles to remember details accurately. Many employers are finding job applicants with embellished resumés – not necessarily a boldfaced lie, but stretching the truth for sure. Many students, feeling the pressure of applying to colleges and needing to stand out in the crowd, have found “creative” ways of talking about their high school career and extracurricular activities.
Among the character qualities most parents try to instill in their children, telling the truth is close to the top of the list because adults know that dishonesty at any level creates an atmosphere of mistrust within relationships. Yet those same parents who are talking about the importance of telling the truth will turn right around and be dishonest in front of their children.
Some may remember the episode of “The Andy Griffith Show” in which Andy tries to teach Opie the importance of being honest. Opie sells his bike to a friend, but fails to tell him all the things that are wrong with it. Andy tells Opie that he will have to tell his friend the truth.