Learn to keep your mouth shut. Seriously, it’s NOT that hard. It doesn’t matter how trivial you think the story is, don’t share it. If it's not your story to tell, don't freakin' tell it. I’ve always made it a point to respect other people’s wishes. If someone hasn't revealed something, there's obviously a reason for it. If you claim to be their friend, you especially shouldn't be gossiping about them to others.
People gossip constantly. People are insecure, so they talk about other people so that they won’t be talked about. They point out the negatives in other people's lives to make them feel better about their own life. Gossip is not only a bad habit, it is also an arrogant sin. Some feel powerful if they have information to divulge about another person. Do not encourage gossip and rumors. If you cannot avoid hearing, you don’t have to repeat.
We live in a world where we want to be the first to know, the first to share, and first to break the news. We thrive on spreading shocking news, and have little regard for those it could affect, but it’s NOT your story to tell.
Even though I enjoy blogging, I'm a pretty private person. I don't share every detail of my life on here. I only share what I believe can help others. I blog about things after I've dealt with them on my own. I blog to clear my mind. I certainly don't blog so that people will pity me. I'm cautious about what I post because I know how people are these days. People are always sharing your story for you - good or bad. Even when I was pregnant, I waited 20 weeks before sharing that news. The moment I did, it was like a wildfire. Your good news should be yours to spread and feel excited about. Others always want to rain on your parade. Your bad news should not be gossiped about either, but it happens anyways. No one can understand your emotions, but YOU.
Unless you have walked in my shoes or the person's shoes you are talking about, don't say you understand & don't say you spread their news out of concern. That is just that BULLSHIT. Yes, I am calling your BLUFF.
Comfort & Privacy to All ....
~ J. Lynn
