The Golden Rule we all learned as children: “Do unto others as you would want done unto you”. This is a good principle for living a happy life. It is also known by another name: “Natural Justice”. It is common sense but how few people seem to have this virtue. It is easy for many people to prefer lies over truth. The words below are a meditation. Enjoy.

Nobody’s Friend

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 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 called 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.