Assume They Lie Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

Today...
With various masks worn,
To disguise and hide.
Assume people lie.

Even those first introduced.
Assume they lie.
Relieve yourself,
From listening to future excuses.

Until someone has won your trust.
With a thorough scrutiny,
Only time affords one they can safely give up.
Don't try to analyze someone first met.
Assume they lie.
Assume they disrespect.
Assume they gossip like all the rest.

Today...
With various masks worn,
To disguise and hide.
Assume people lie.

When meeting someone fresh upon the scene,
Assume they lie...
Until your honesty and dignity given,
Has not corrupted your willingness to trust.
Don't sit in denial with tears to cry.

Until that time has come,
And you are convinced...
You have met someone different,
Than those who have rushed away...
After crushing your trust.
Assume they lie.
Don't even try to wonder.