Aggadah, Truth in Gay Clothes
The Preacher of Dubno, Jacob Krantz, was once asked why the parable has such persuasive power over people. The Preacher replied, "I will explain this by means of a parable.
"It happened once that Truth walked about the streets as naked as his mother bore him. Naturally, people were scandalized and wouldn't let him into their houses. Whoever saw him got frightened and ran away.
And so as Truth wandered through the streets brooding over his troubles he met Parable. Parable was gaily decked out in fine clothes and was a sight to see. He asked, 'Tell me, what is the meaning of all this? Why do you walk about naked and looking so woebegone?' Truth shook his head sadly and replied, 'Everything is going downhill with me, brother. I've gotten so old and decrepit that everybody avoids me.' 'What you're saying makes no sense,' said Parable. 'People are not giving you a wide berth because you are old. Take me, for instance, I am no younger than you. Nonetheless, the older I get the more attractive people find me. Just let me confide a secret to you about people. They don't like things plain and bare but dressed up prettily and a little artificial. I'll tell you what. I will lend you some fine clothes like mine and you'll soon see how people will take you.'
Truth followed this advise and decked himself out in Parable's gay clothes. And lo and behold! People no longer shunned him but welcomed him heartily. Since that time Truth and Parable are to be seen as inseparable companions, esteemed and loved by all."
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