I have seen all the buzz from Kerry's false claim of meeting with the UN Security Council back in September, 2002. Yes, it does seem that he exaggerated his claim, but I feel that this not the 'big deal' it was originally made out to be. He should get some credit for actually meeting with some members of the council.

What this story does demonstrate is Kerry's willingness to exaggerate to improve his position. I'm certain this is not a trait uncommon among politicians but Kerry does have a tendency to place himself in positions and places which are easily debunked. This does little to establish his credibility and the potential downside far exceeds any gains from the fibs he is making.

A prime example is his 2001 claim that he was there for the signing of the cease-fire that ended the first Gulf War. The particular claim does little to increase his prestige or perceived understanding of international affairs; but the revelation that his trip to Iraq was actually two weeks after the armistice makes him look like someone trying to capitalize on the success of others, especially when his errant claim is held alongside his vote against liberating Kuwait.

I'm not so naive to think that politicians always tell the truth. They lie when the chance of getting caught is next to nothing or when the potential gain is impossible to ignore. Yet of all the lies from John Kerry, the one I find most revealing (and damning) is this one:

ESPN: We've got to ask you some Red Sox questions. Do you believe in the curse?

John Kerry: Do I believe in it? No, but it certainly makes a powerful argument from time to time. I mean, I don't believe in curses, but I do think that we've been under a cloud here and there. I was 30 yards away from Billy Buckner in that famous Shea Stadium game in '86. So I've been there in the heartbreaks.

Except that he wasn't at the game...or even in the same state. He was back in Boston at a banquet. Which brings me to my point: what did Kerry stand to gain from telling this untruth? Nothing. His statement has absolutely zero upside, a pretty steep downside and is easily documented as completely false. It was a lie simply for the sake of lying; pure braggadocio.

Lying is wrong. But if you are going to lie, then lie when you absolutely have to: "No, I'm not aware of these allegations but my communication office will have a statement out as soon as we can." Lie when you can never be caught: "And when the second plane hit the tower, the first thought that passed through my mind…" But never lie simply for the sake of lying.

It is this lie that tells me that Kerry views the common Americans as idiots. It tells me that he will say anything to look good. It makes it difficult to believe that his many undisclosed plans will actually fulfil their outrageous claims. It has convinced me that the office he seeks does not match the man.

In the folklore of past Presidents, I appreciate the fabled honesty of George "I cannot tell a lie" Washington. I'm touched by the honor of Abraham "Honest Abe" Lincoln, who actually earned his nickname while practicing law. These men were giants; Kerry is merely a charlatan. I pray he does not become Charlatan-in-Chief.

UPDATE: The Kerry campaign claims he left that reception, took a flight to New York and was there for the end of the game. Is this Possible? Yes. Is it probably? I'm not sure. Kerry tries to pass himself off as a Sox fan, although his efforts have been a little weak on that front. This appears to be more of the same, although if there is evidence that he actually was at the game, I definintely will stand corrected. (Integrity, Integrity, Integrity!)