We say we want the truth. But the ancient Assyrians had a saying: “Tell the truth, but leave soon after.” They knew what we won’t admit–no one wants to bear the truth.

Whether its stoning prophets during Biblical times, or declaring reporters the “Enemy of the people,” We don’t want the truth. We want the sweet lies that tickle our ears. Tell us what we want to hear, and we welcome you forever. Tell us the truth, then leave soon after.

Where is the honor in that?

Nowhere to be found, save by the witnesses to each other that stood the line together. They are heroes because they embraced the truth: they fought and died for each other. Their commitment shames us all that praise our own enshadowed vanity and condemn our light-of-day reality.

Their consecration of the ground says the last word on truth and honor. Would that we listened!

Autumn wind

the last leaves scattered

at dusk

for RonovanWrites #Weekly #Haiku #Poetry Prompt #Challenge #227 Truth&Honor