Untruths or Truth.......that is the question.

Today, I read a front page article of our local newspaper in Woodward. It was quite amusing with inaccurate information that makes the business that the article is about to look like a standout. But in truth, it is very, very sad. I say this because it is the owner of the business that makes the inaccurate quote and the paper turns it to make them look good.

At first reading the article seems to be one that promotes the business to the public. In the second reading of the article it is evident that the business owner is just trying to make them more accomplished than they actually are.  Unfortunately, many people of the public reading the article will think that this business has made great achievement in what they do. So the public is mislead.

The newspaper is truly at fault. The writer is very much at fault. Not verifying the information given by the business owner, has now allowed them to publish untruths about the past history in our town. This history involves the hard work of children and their efforts to compete. It also leaves out the efforts of a long standing business in this town and the accomplishments.  The newspaper should be embarrassed.

So why this article on our BLOG? To remind us all of a few actions. First to remind us that when we decide to publish something to the public, we should check the facts. Second, that as writers, we only publish after all facts have been checked and verified.

But this goes a bit further. We should remind ourselves that not everything we read is always truthful. And when untruths are published, it causes hurt, anger and many more emotions from various people. Those of us that have BLOGS should also always be careful of making sure that what we write is fully the truth and we have done our due diligence in verifying it.

As a business owner, we should also be very careful of our statements to the press and the public. Untruths told can sometimes blow up into large rumors that can then deteriorate a business or harm a human. We must also remember that businesses are ran by humans. And so we must always be cautious in building ourselves up by using untrue statements, which will actually turn and bring us down.

Businesses, such as ours, should be sure to work hard for truth in our words and actions because we are a strong role model for our many young students. Using untrue information  to promote our business, is not being a great role model for young minds and bodies and creates a culture that parents do not want their children involved in.

To my fellow studio and gym friends that own such businesses, I encourage you to make a stand with us in being cautious with our words to not build ourselves up at another's expense.

To our students and families that trust us with their child for many hours a week, we need to pledge a wholesome environment that enables them to grow in their skills, knowledge and love to the best of our abilities and true teachings. It is only this method that creates lifetime memories and connections.

Our pledge to our families should be TRUTH in all areas of our business for the sake of their children. And THAT is the pledge to our families here at Academy Of Fine Art.