Do not the majority of us lie, at some point of time? But then why? Is it because of the inherent fear that would entail our exposure? Or is it because we want to cover our mistakes and want to be proved infallible? Whatever the reason might be, lies should not be resorted to a method- a tool for survival, as a defensive mechanism. The basic thought stems from the fact that we are not prepared to assume responsibility for our actions. Let us examine some of the above ideas.

Fear is both a lock and key. Fear opens many-a-doors for those who have successfully conquered it. But for most others, it is blockade. In the heat of the moment, without paying proper attention to the consequences, often we do certain (mis)actions. Later, when we are able to detach ourselves from the situation and take a ‘spectators’ view point’ we ourselves realize that the actions could have been best avoided. But then it is too late, by then. The least we can do is to stand-up manly and accept our mistakes. We would not become any smaller! In trying to cover up, we only compound the issue. When we adopt cover-up operations, we are committing 2 errors. One, the original mistake and secondly trying to disprove something which needs no proof.  Owing our mistakes is a better option.Chances is that we would learn from them and would not repeat them.

To err is human. No man, mechanism or process, in this earth is error-free. Committing mistakes (and of course learning from them) is a sure way to wisdom. As such, one need not feel ashamed or small at having committed an error. If we believe that Knowledge is Power, we also must admit that mistakes happen because of ignorance or wrong-knowledge. Suffice if we acquire in the case of former and rectify in the later.

There is also this famous saying A MAN WHO MAKES NO MISTAKES, USUALLY, MAKES NOTHING. So one need not be afraid of making mistakes. Because in trying to check against mistakes, one’s natural ability to perform may be severely curtailed. So each one of us, let us make things to the best of our ability. If and when mistakes occur they can be addressed. That should be the spirit.

Let me conclude the article by trying to sound ‘scholarly’. “SATYAM EVA JAYATE”-TRUTH ALONE TRIUMPS.” as we all know, is our National motto. Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, lived for, lived in and lived by Truth. In the mythological arena, we have the example of Raja Harischandra, who would not yield to the temptation of succumbing to falsehood, come what may. Let us take a leaf out of their books and try to lead as truthful a life as possible.

All the foregoing ideas were with regard to why and who of the mistake? Another angle would be how do persons react to a lie. Most including yous faithfully, just flare up at the mention of the word. (Not that personally I do not lie). The ultimate reaction as has been advocated in various religious texts, is to sympathise with the person, try to understand his circumstances and pardon him. This will require a huge effort. But at least we must learn to accept mistakes as part of the reality. But this a double-edged sword. Once the person making the mistakes, realises that he is likely to be pardoned and not reprimanded, he may acquire this as a matter of habbit. This is to be checked against.

I also realise that the very nature of this topic is ever-changing. But throughout the World, there is a general tendency to shun mistakes. This mind set must change. A toddler, when it takes its first steps, stumbles and falls. But that is exactly how it learns to walk. So also let making mistakes not be viewed as one's birth right. Let us try to exercise normal precautions and try to safeguard against mistakes. Should they occur, let us not resort to falsehood ; instead let us owe it up. This would be  a definite and significant step in one's growth path.