Speak. Don't Speak.

"If you haven't something nice to say, don't say anything at all."

This is a childhood concept which few people seem to fully grasp.

Speak commonly, don't speak openly.

What does this mean? It simply means to speak (to others) about matters which are your own business, do not speak (to others) about matters which are someone else's business.

I am referring to gossip.

Some people reason that, "If what I am telling someone is true, then it isn't really gossip." This is very poor reasoning.

Some also reason that, "They gossip about me, so why shouldn't I gossip about them?" This is also very poor reasoning.

People should not be your standard. Your standard should be God. For there is a time to speak, and a time to hold your tongue. However, there is never a time for gossip.

I have a hard time contemplating this... If people know that gossip can hurt others, then why participate? It is difficult for me to understand.

To prevent hurting someone by this means, what can be done? The solution: Do not gossip! If you, (or anyone else for that matter) is speaking to someone, about someone, which does not involve you, or the person speaking, do not participate.

Think of it this way: If you are speaking to someone, about someone else, you are adding that person (whom you are talking to) as a third wheel.

In relation to a bicycle, if you add a third wheel to it, it becomes a tricycle, and only young children ride tricycles.

My point is, it is immature and childish to gossip about others, because it benefits no one.

The Bible has many things to say about controlling the tongue.

Psalm 34:13 - "keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies."

Psalm 37:30 - "the mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom, and the tongue speaks what is just."

Proverbs 10:19-20 - "when words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value."

Proverbs 12:18 - "reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."

I myself need to watch what I say to others. I am not blameless. In the past I have said or mentioned something which spread by accident as a consequence.

Speak commonly, don't speak openly.

When I have something I want to say, I shall first say it to God, and speak with Him about it. I would encourage you too, reader, to do the same. If I could, I wish everyone could read this. It is an important lesson for everyone to be reminded of at some time or another.

On a happier, more cheerful note, the weather here is fantastic. I am going to devote the rest of today to finishing up this week's homework and I think I shall even try to begin next week's homework load as well (seeing as next week is show week for Seussical!). AND, if there is still time left in the day, I think I may take a walk. :)

Have a wonderful Easter weekend!

~Jacob