Gossip. It is such a small word for such a powerful action. As a noun it is “casual or unconstrained conversation or reports of other people.” My personally written dictionary calls it “sharing information that I didn’t need to share”. I’d like to say that I never indulge in it. But, if that were true, I would never be writing this. I did it today. I shared information that I didn’t need to. Afterwards, two little voices warred within. The first one said, “its okay, you didn’t give details.” And “you only shared with a close friend” “It was really only a little thing” But the other one spoke louder, “ She didn’t need to know, you have no excuse.”
I think that the choice to share unneeded information comes from several reasons. One, It gives me something to talk about. Two, I have annoyance or frustration that I want (not need) to voice. Three, somehow it gives me this fleeting feeling of (false) self worth. This afternoon as I thought with regret of my choice of words, I am reminded of some other potent words. They are “be slow to speak”, “Whatever is lovely…”, and “If you can’t say somethin’ nice, don’t say anything at all”. These are life words, words that I would do well to never leave home without.
First- Did I miss that felt thing? I got caught up in work yesterday and forgot:( Thanks so much for inviting me tho- I would really like to get together eventually:)
And about what you said- I agree however, I do think there is a difference if you have a sister or friend who you can share everything including your frustrations with. I actually find women more generous and kind when they have one person they can work things through with. Sometimes when we are angry we need to talk about it to get the bitterness out. Not with everyone. But there is a difference between sharing with a trusted individual to work through it or to be sharpened ( Like therapy) or just trying to taint someone’s view of someone. Gossip is purposefully trying to hurt the other through multiple sharing of information to make other people see it your way. It doesn’t sound like you did that. Yes we still need to be kind even when we share frustrations tacking on phrases like, ” I know I am angry and I could be seeing it wrong but Please help me figure out if I am being unjust. Maybe this is actually something in my life I need to work out- maybe not.” ect ect.
I think since God is three persons he created us to hash it out and share. We just need to share with only one gal and our hubby and try our best to do it with dignity for the other’s soul and in a trustful place.
You are honourable to note it. Perhaps next time it will be easier if you really feel yourself waring between sharing or not.
Hope your day is good.
Yes, you did miss it:( I have think I have recruited some new addicts after yesterday evening:) I still have a few more people who would like to learn and some who want to do more so I think I am going to do it again next week. Tuesday eve any time after 8.On the post….thanks for your encouragement. I totally agree with what you said, however in this case…unfortunately it was all of the wrong reasons…and had no purpose. I have dealt with it with my friend and so just wanted to share the thoughts that I had on it. No it wasn’t a HUGE deal, but sometimes it is those little things that begin to snowball and isn’t fair to the person being spoken of, the person who is forced to listen nor myself really.