First – the size, little, has nothing to do with anything. Second – ‘white’ is definitely a misnomer, lies are colorless and calling it white doesn’t lessen the fact. Third – a lie, is a lie – period. Calling it ‘just’ doesn’t lessen the reality that it is a lie.
There are a number of problems with lies. You have to remember what you said…. and to whom. Lies, like a rock thrown into water, ripple and spread, affecting everyone, in some fashion, who are touched by the lie. But, you rarely see the impact of your lie, perhaps those nearest the lie but certainly not the outer fringes.
Dismissing what you said as it was …. just a little white lie …. doesn’t dimish the impact. Part of the problem with the lie is that you can’t control it, nor other’s feelings and behavior based on it. Truth is that this phrase is only used after you’ve been caught lying – attempting to mitigate or excuse your own behavior. And to say that “… everyone does it.” is not a reason.
Does this mean that I don’t lie? If only. However I do attempt to speak only the truth, as I see and understand it. When I don’t then I will try and apologize as soon as possible – carrying the guilt is quite agonizing.
