Gossip, Lies & Dirty Laundry
BY BART SMITH, AUTHOR OF B.S. THE BOOK "Let every man mind his own business."
– Cervantes Ibid. pt. I, bk. III, ch. 8 (1605)
Nothing wastes more time and energy and damages the heart and feelings (even reputations) more than spreading gossip, lies and "dirty laundry." When it comes to those we love and care about, "take care" of other people's "right to privacy." When it comes to strangers and others we associate with on a regular basis, there too, "take care." Be kind. Speak highly of others. Speak no evil.
Breaking the confidentiality of someone who put their faith and trust in you as a friend, a lover, a family member, a parent, a sibling, a neighbor, a co-worker, a client … you name it, is the end all of peace and harmony in that relationship you worked so hard to build and maintain. Life, and living it, is tough enough already without the added B.S. people throw at each other when they lie, talk ill and spread rumors …
From now on, lead by example. Discipline your tongue. Keep your mouth shut when it comes to spilling "ill beans" about somebody and their business. Remember the old saying, "If you haven't anything nice to say, don't say it at all." Respect other peoples privacy and keep their secrets protected.
"Keep yourself to yourself."
– Dickens, Pickwick Papers, ch. 32
