I might use poetic license, 
write stories and invent details,
tell tall tales, speak in parables, 
exaggerate, embellish, 
embroider, enlarge upon 
or summarize and minimize.

I could write memoirs 
about my illustrious, 
impeccable career. 

I could cite statistics 
to prove a point, 
maybe fudge the numbers.

I could hide information, omit details, 
deny any knowledge 
and gloss over important information.

I could quote out of context 
or plagiarize and take the credit.

I could cite outdated authors.
I could speak with forceful authority 
or mumble when I don’t have a clue.

I could swear to tell the whole truth 
and not be allowed to tell it all..
I could answer hypothetical questions.
I might have a lapse of memory, 
filled in by imagination.

I could enter politics, 
promise perfection, 
and then compromise, 
or even vote for the Tea Party,

but
        I will never, ever lie.

March 2011