In the Book of Wisdom it says, “There’s nothing so delicious as the taste of gossip! It melts in your mouth.” Why do we seem to relish hearing negative things about others? – Today “gossip” refers to saying salacious things about another, or the sharing of a secret. – Ironically, the word originated in Old English as ‘godsibb,’ meaning “one’s closest personal friend, with whom you can share your most intimate secrets.” – Today, the word’s meaning has changed into ‘one who betrays friendship and who slanders another.’
Today, the listening to and the sharing of gossip is prevalent everywhere, and common practice. Our national political leaders set an example that too many people follow. And our TV and social networks are saturated in lies and falsehoods told to tantalize viewers’ and to get higher ratings! Truth is irrelevant.
Like all character defects, when we give them the freedom to express themselves, it diminished us, and it harms others. — Love does not delight in spreading rumors or dark deeds. Love participates only in what edifies and honors others. – And certainly, we must know that whoever gossips to you will gossip about you.
Therefore, be wise. Be truth-tellers. Let all bitterness and wrath and slander and gossip be put away from you. Speaking the truth in love, grow into a mature and respectful person, whose friendship one can trust, and who words are always spoken honorably.
