 |
| "Truth coming out of her well", by Jean-Léon Gérôme, 1896 |
One hot summer day twin sisters Truth and Lies went down to the well for a refreshing drink. Lies suggested to Truth that they cool themselves in the water, so both undressed. While Truth was bathing in the water, Lies got out of the well and took the clothes that belonged to Truth and dressed herself. Lies paraded herself through the streets of the city dressed as Truth. Many of the people were impressed with Lies. Lies was so splendid and beautiful. She looked and sounded wonderful. But she was wearing perception only dressed as Truth.
When Truth stepped out of the water and found her clothes had been stolen, Truth had to make a choice. She saw the garments Lies had left behind. Truth said to herself, "I'd rather walk around naked than to walk around as Lies. I'll just have to be what I am; the naked Truth".
But Light, knowing both Truth and Lies, could discern between the twins. He found the sisters in the public square. One being honored with praise, the other ridiculed and scorned. Light exposed Lies, removing the perception clothing her. He revealed the false sister, who was nothing more than the ugly truth.
Light is the best way to discern who is Truth and who is Lies.
May Truth prevail, no matter how uncomfortable it makes the public. Perception is not always reality.
I shared this on Facebook, but my bishop at the time found the classical artwork depicting this parable offensive. Rather than talk to me himself he called my husband and had him tell me to take it down. Originally I had thought to share it here on my blog 03 October 2018. We are now five years later 01 March 2023. I still think the parable rings true, but back in 2018, my context was much more relevant.
