What is truth? To me — and according to the English-language dictionary — it’s what can be scientifically or empirically proven: “a verified or indisputable fact, proposition, principle, or the like . . . ideal or fundamental reality apart from and transcending perceived experience,” etc. Everything else can be classified as faith, opinion, prejudice, or wishful thinking . . . in my humble opinion.

In today’s political environment, however, truth has become a rare commodity, with an over-abundance of lies and prejudices being too easily disseminated and enhanced by the ready availability of social media.

But how do we combat the evil forces of untruth? Once again, I found a beautifully simple answer in the writings of my old friend William Shakespeare, in a play with which I admit I am not familiar — thus sparing you my usual synopsis (you’re welcome):

“And I can teach thee . . . to shame the devil
By telling truth. Tell truth and shame the devil.
If thou have power to raise him, bring him hither,
And I’ll be sworn I have power to shame him hence.
O, while you live, tell truth and shame the devil!”

– Shakespeare, King Henry IV, Part 1 – Act III, Scene 1

Which is why leaders are so desperately trying to silence those who speak the truth: because they know that, given the light of day, it will defeat them.

In L. Frank Baum’s classic The Wizard of Oz, all it took to melt the Wicked Witch of the West was a bucket of water; in real life, all we need are facts . . . and the courage to “tell truth and shame the devil.”

Just sayin’ . . .

Brendochka
4/29/26