Gossip

Author Unknown

Gossip is an unseen enemy that spares no one.

MY NAME IS GOSSIP.  I HAVE NO RESPECT FOR JUSTICE.

I MAIM WITHOUT KILLING.  I BREAK HEARTS AND RUIN LIVES.

I AM CUNNING AND MALICIOUS AND GATHER STRENGTH WITH AGE.

THE MORE I AM QUOTED, THE MORE I AM BELIEVED.

MY VICTIMS ARE HELPLESS.  THEY CANNOT PROTECT THEMSELVES AGAINST ME BECAUSE I HAVE NO NAME AND NO FACE.

TO TRACK ME DOWN IS IMPOSSIBLE.  THE HARDER YOU TRY, THE MORE ELUSIVE I BECOME.

I AM NOBODY’S FRIEND.

ONCE I TARNISH A REPUTATION, IT IS NEVER THE SAME.

I TOPPLE GOVERNMENTS AND WRECK MARRIAGES.

I RUIN CAREERS AND CAUSE SLEEPLESS NIGHTS, HEARTACHES, AND INDIGESTION. 
 
I MAKE INNOCENT PEOPLE CRY IN THEIR PILLOWS.

EVEN MY NAME HISSES.  I AM GOSSIP.  I MAKE HEADLINES AND HEADACHES.

Before you repeat a story, ask yourself:

Is it true?

Is it harmless?

Is it necessary?

If it isn't, don't repeat it!

Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others.  Philippians 4:8

Don’t tell your secrets to a gossip unless you want them broadcast to the world.  Proverbs 20:19

An evil man sows strife; gossip separates the best of friends.  Proverbs 16:28

A gossip goes around spreading rumors, while a trustworthy man tries to quiet them. Proverbs 11:13

Don’t gossip.  Leviticus 19:16a