Lying has been part of the human reality since the earliest days of creation, according to scripture. Lies exist. People lie. We see it every day. And few can truthfully say they have never lied.

People lie to protect self from getting caught or suffering loss. They lie for money; for selfish agendas; to get their way in a situation. This world is replete with reasons to lie. So when one says “yes they did” and another says “no I didn’t,” suspicions rise as we question, “Which is lying?” And when that accusation comes at a seeming strategic time, suspicions rise still higher.

In cases like this one pictured below that is in the news in these days, we can’t just say one is lying and the other isn’t without questioning things and finding truth. On the woman’s side, if she is the truth sayer, justice for her tragedy is at stake if we blindly choose to believe the man. On the man’s side, if he is the truth sayer, his reputation and life is at stake if we blindly believe the woman. Thus, finding truth is vital.

The sad thing, and the thing that infuriates me, is all the women – and men: men can be raped to – but all those who have been raped and are thrust back into their pain by watching such travesty. They hurt for those who have experienced rape and want them always to be believed, so others feel safe to come forth. I understand their point. Problem? People lie. Suspicions rise. And truth has to be sought so the innocent gets justice.

I hate when people come forth with false accusations. I hate when a true accusation is met with a cowardly response, a lie to save face by one who can’t admit their wrong and do right by those they hurt. But I really hate the pain caused to those watching, who are flung back into their pain. I hate when situations like this make others afraid to come forth. For these being hurt, the one lying should truly be ashamed, whichever it is, and should suffer the justice due.