Lies Have No Feet

One afternoon, Wahab Sahib went to the school grounds to pick up his son, Abuzar. He saw Abuzar chatting happily with his classmate and friend, Tauseef. Tauseef, speaking casually, asked, “Hey Abuzar! Why didn’t you come to school yesterday? We missed you.”

Abuzar hesitated. “Well… actually…” he started, unable to form a proper answer. Feeling nervous, he finally said, “I had a headache and a slight fever yesterday, so I couldn’t come to school. But I feel better now.”

Wahab Sahib, who had been standing quietly nearby, overheard this. His heart sank. He felt disappointed that his son had chosen to lie, even though it was a small one. Abuzar and Tauseef continued their conversation, laughing and joking, completely unaware that Wahab Sahib was listening to every word.

“Abuzar! Your father is here,” Tauseef suddenly said. Abuzar froze. Seeing his father approach, he felt a mixture of embarrassment and fear. Wahab Sahib smiled gently, hiding his disappointment for the moment, and said, “Come on, son. It’s evening now; let’s go home.”

As they walked home, Wahab Sahib asked in a calm but serious tone, “Abuzar, why did you tell Tauseef that you had a fever when you were just avoiding school?”

Abuzar lowered his eyes and replied, “Dad, I know lying is wrong. But everyone tells small lies these days. I thought it wouldn’t matter.”

Wahab Sahib shook his head, “Even small lies matter, son. Lying, even in little things, breaks trust. A good child must always speak the truth.”

Abuzar nodded thoughtfully. “You are right, Dad. I should have been honest. I promise I won’t lie again.”

Wahab Sahib smiled and gently patted his son’s head. “I am proud of you, Abuzar. Speaking the truth is never easy, but it is always the right choice.”

Just then, there was a knock at the door. Wahab Sahib called out, “Abuzar, see who’s at the door!” Abuzar hurriedly opened it and returned with news, “Dad! Your friend Shaukat is here to see you.”

Wahab Sahib sighed. “Tell him I haven’t returned from the office yet,” he instructed. Abuzar nodded and conveyed the message.

Shaukat, unaware of the truth, was shocked. He said angrily over the phone, “You lied to me! This is not acceptable. You are not worthy of my friendship. From today, consider our friendship over!” and abruptly hung up.

Wahab Sahib’s face grew serious, and he called Abuzar. “Son, why did you tell Shaukat everything?” he asked.

Abuzar looked at his father with innocent eyes and said, “Dad! You always told me not to lie. But today, you lied to Shaukat. I couldn’t lie because you taught me that honesty is always the best choice. I told him everything honestly, as you taught me.”

Hearing this, Wahab Sahib’s heart softened. He realized that his son had understood the lesson of honesty better than he had. He hugged Abuzar tightly and said, “Son, you have spoken the truth. I too will follow your example and always tell the truth from now on. You have reminded me of the importance of honesty.”

Abuzar smiled. “Dad, does this mean you’ve become like me?”

Wahab Sahib laughed. “Not exactly, son. But I am trying to be a truthful person, just like you.”

The next day, Wahab Sahib and Abuzar together called Shaukat and explained everything. They apologized for the misunderstanding, and Shaukat accepted their explanation. Their friendship was restored, stronger than ever.

From that day forward, Abuzar never told a lie again. He learned that honesty is not just about avoiding punishment; it is about building trust, respect, and integrity. Even small lies can lead to unnecessary problems, but truthfulness always strengthens relationships. Wahab Sahib also learned an important lesson: children often teach us the greatest truths, and leading by example is the best way to guide them.

Moral: Lies, no matter how small, can cause serious consequences. Truthfulness builds trust and respect. Always be honest, for honesty is the foundation of a good character and lasting relationships.