Are lies always bad?

So I was thinking..and this is kind of an interesting way to view things. (keep in mind I did say kind of)
Everybody lies
Right?
Right.

Well, it is a sin to lie, so technically or 'ethically' it is wrong. But once you really think about it arn't lies neccesary sometimes to keep things rolling the way they are 'suppose to'? Arn't lies okay when the truth would only hurt the ones you love and care about?
Ethically: no.
In Life Terms: yes
I have done my fair share of lieing.  I am almost positive we all have. (speaking in general of course) The question that holds me down right now though..Is it better to be honest and let someone you care about hurt, or keep it from them and go with the old saying 'what they don't know can't hurt them'? This is a tough one in my opinion.  I think I would almost rather hear the truth and have to deal with it rather then not hear at all.  But if I were to have to tell people something, I would almost rather not say and let them be happy. (I guess it depends which side your on)
--Now you have to consider, what happens if they find out on there own? Then you run the risk of them being upset because you never told them whatever this issue may be.
Doesn't it seem like no matter what you do in certain situations you are going to hurt someone?
Ahh, easy solution to all of this though.
Don't do what your going to regret.
Don't do what you will have to lie to your boyfriend/girlfriend, bestfriend or neighbor about.
Because when it comes right down to it.
Was It worth it?

Guess that was some 'random' thoughts I had today

Peace & Love,
Kay