“Today I bent the truth to be kind, and I have no regret, for I am far surer of what is kind than I am of what is true.”

ummm maybe? I guess under certain circumstances. Okay? Here I envision Jack Nicolson dinamically declaring: "you can't handle the truth."

How can anyone who is uncertain of what is true gauge with confidence what is kind?

Challenge anyone who bears the oxymoronic
designation "progressive" to characterize for you what is kind.

There are times to avoid the truth for your own sake. Example: If your wife ask if a clothing item makes her look fat, and it does, the truth can get you in a lot of trouble.

"The truth shall make you free, indeed" therefore be Not ashamed of it. The saving of thyself and thy house lay in the balance. 
Such are the True doctrines of Liberty and Freedom concerning the individual and that nation. To bend the truth allows for indoctrination rather than education. the quote drips of emotional doubt. 

This is a great line to use when caught in a lie.  ;-)

It only works when at least two people agree that the truth is a proven fact.