HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY

(Contributed by Roopak S. Raut, X-B)

Honesty is one of the basic values of social life. It forms the foundation on which the character of the person is built. ‘Honesty is the best policy’. Everyone knows this proverb very well. We also use this proverb in our day to day life. But, do we really know the deep meaning which is conveyed by this proverb?

‘Truth’ – the five-lettered word seems very easy to pronounce. But many are afraid of speaking one. And so only they change their path towards dishonesty. In today’s world there is a misconception that only dishonest person can be successful. ‘Honesty can never lead to attainment of one’s goal’ is the modern belief. The deterioration of this value can even take place in a family. Sometimes ignorant parents advice their children that speaking harmless lie is a part of modern competitive world. They are often exposed to the lies that their parents speak on the telephone. But, this is indeed wrong.Image via Wikipedia

Dishonesty sometimes leads to success. But, the success obtained in this way is temporary. Sometimes it might happen that luck may play it’s role and dishonest person may become successful. He might gain name, fame and wealth as well. But, he would be debarred from the happiness of an honest achievement. His conscience will keep on pricking his soul.

Man is a social animal. It is but natural for man to commit mistakes. But, if a mistake is committed, it has to be admitted. “He that does one fault at first and lies to hide it makes it two.” For instance, if a person commits any mistake he should admit it rather than hiding it with a lie. A day will come when everyone will know the truth and no one will trust him. George Washington chopped down his father’s apple tree. But father did not punish him because he admitted doing so. If a single lie is told, one has to tell other thousand lies to protect it.

Honesty is the best policy. Saying so, I remember a quotation of a great philosopher, Bacon –

“It is heaven upon earth, to have a man’s mind move in Charity, rest in Providence and turn upon the poles of Truth.”