I have been so accused on the Internet and, I must admit I am confused but the reason for my confusion may be somewhat unusual.
I used to lie for a living, which is not as odd as it sounds.
Many occupations incorporate some form of lying as an integral part of their modus operandi and also because the sort of people who take on such a role which involves bending, twisting or breaking the truth are eminently suited for that task.
Obvious candidates are: politicians (very topical), journalists, estate agents and of course salespeople. Traditionally other suspects would be: car mechanics, builders, and probably writers and actors although the latter two can be forgiven as everyone accepts lying serves a positive purpose.
Doctors have to lie on occasions in cause of protecting patient’s sensibilities, as do police officers in the equally good cause of catching criminals.
I was paid to lie, more than that I actually had to live the lie, actually becoming someone else, sometimes for months and months. At first it was odd, disorientating, frightening at times but eventually I became used to the schizophrenic existence and - mostly - had little difficulty in returning to my real persona. The problems that did occur centred on those close to me who had to accept, not only my disappearance and lack of contact for long periods but also the inevitable problems with the transition from who I had become back to who I really was.
I have not lived that life for many years now; I am solidly in a world of normality and commonplace existence. Sometimes, in dreams or very occasionally in moments of absent-minded déjà vu a trace of past will intrude but essentially I am Mr. AverageAndOrdinary FoxWriter.
But now, perhaps because of revelations that were best left alone I have been accused of lying possibly hinting that I was regressing back into my previous career, living as it were, another life. The charge is grave.
I have not been a paid liar for several years hence.
The question is, do I defend against this accusation or do I accept that an opinion, if honestly and fairly held is valid and therefore simply take the situation as the only reality that one can find on here?
