Bilingual Pen | Truth vs Deceit

Truth vs Deceit

November 20, 2008 by Sherma E. Benosa filed under Flash Fiction, Short Story | 89 views

Deeply confused and utterly sad, Truth decided to consult with the Lord

“Lord,” he said in a barely audible voice. “I am confused. You said that I am beautiful, but why is it that when I present myself to people, they would not look at me directly, and would rather look the other way? You said I am good, but why can’t I help hurting them? You said that Deceit is evil, but why is he capable of making people feel better, even if there are times that he, too, hurts them? You said Deceit is ugly, but why do people stare at him with so much awe?”

The Lord smiled sympathetically. He walked over to Truth, and held him by his shoulders. “My child, do not be confused. You are beautiful and pure. You shine so brightly, people cannot bear to look at you directly. They either put a veil over their eyes to see you or use a mirror to get a glimpse of you, not realizing that the very same instruments that aid them in looking at you are blurring you, causing them to fail to see you in your full splendor.

“You are good; you do not really hurt them, you just crush their egos. Indeed, Deceit is ugly, but don’t forget that he is a master of disguise. He can change his black cloak into a rainbow-colored cape so that those who have not seen your grandeur are amazed at how lovely he seems, and they stare at him with awe.

“He is evil, because by not showing his real self to people, he dims you. But do not fret, my child. There are those who are brave enough who choose to look at you directly without any veil, without the need for mirrors. They see you, and they love you. And to them, your beauty is beyond compare.” The Lord patted Truth in the back. “Go forth my child, for you are loved.”

Feeling better, Truth thanked the Lord then walked happily back to his world, where he shone and shone brightly, giving light to the whole world.

He’s still there, standing magnificently for everyone to see. Sometimes the people see him; but most often, they don’t. And although they all profess a great love for love him, the truth is that they love only that which they are willing to see.

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//Sherma E. Benosa
19 May 2008; 11:40am

Photo copyright by Jumel Pineda Chua (gmac). Posted with permission from the artist.