

It seems like a weird one to lie about because the Commercial is not terribly difficult compared to the Instrument rating, just a few extra maneuvers and tighter tolerances. That said, most people don’t know what it means if you say “I’m a private pilot and have my instrument rating” so I wouldn’t be surprised if he doesn’t fly enough to care so lies about this in everyday life.
Add “cause and effect” to the list of things he does not grasp or pretends not to. There wasn’t some time lord showing people the parade would be too festive. It’s a decision made by birthday party attendees in advance which reflects poorly on his ego so it needs to be blamed on anybody but him.