We have all been
lied to countless times in our lives. Many of these lies are meant to protect
us. Many others were simply told out of convenience, tricky topics adults maneuver
around and save to discuss at later dates. Others are simply told out of malice,
to protect secrets or spread rumors. Adults will argue that most of these fibs
are told for our own good and that they are “white lies,” harmless and perhaps even
beneficial. However, no matter the intent, one should always avoid dishonesty.
Unless, of course, its one of those questions a three-year-old asks like, “How
is a baby made?”
The history teacher
in Billy Collins’ poem is foolish and misguided. He claims he is trying to
protect innocence; however, this innocence he is trying to protect exists in
himself, not his students. Furthermore, it is not innocence either; it is
ignorance and an inability to face harsh realities. His “protection” obscures
important truths that the students, and he, will eventually have to face
anyway.
We are taught more
of the truth in school as we progress through the grades. We begin by learning
“Columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492.” Later, we learn he is an Italian
explorer employed by Spain. However, we continue to think of him as a wonderful
man; we never learn about all the crimes he committed and the murders he
conducted (he actually died disgraced by King Ferdinand). In other words, we
merely begin to uncover the lies we were originally told. This will,
unfortunately, continue throughout our lives, but, hopefully, we discover the
truth when it's important and put it to good use and impart the truth whenever possible.
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