Never Lie?

"Lying is always bad"

Is a lie.

*

A child proudly presents a "masterpiece" you'd sooner burn.

Better to say it's beautiful.

A lie is acceptable to spare someone's feelings.

*

A friend asks what you're planning for his birthday.

Better to come up with some boring option.

A lie is acceptable to protect a surprise.

*

A suspicious-looking person asks if you're alone.

Better to say you have company.

A lie is acceptable for safety.

*

A terminally ill friend asks if she'll improve.

Better to say maybe or that you don't know.

A lie is acceptable to alleviate pain.

*

Sometimes,

Albeit, rarely,

The truth does more harm than a lie.

And that's no lie.