Thursday; April 8

I don’t know much about Steve Maraboli other than he is a life coach. Honestly, I haven’t researched his standards or his convictions, but I did come across an interesting quote of his in which he said, “How would your life be different if … You walked away from gossip and verbal defamation? Let today be the day … You speak only the good you know of other people and encourage others to do the same.”. As I read this observation, I was stuck by how it was slightly askew from much of the advice given about gossip. Typically when we issue warnings about gossip we tell people they shouldn’t spread it; but Maraboli seems to go a step further in telling people that they should not only avoid gossiping, they should stop other people from talking about others. By walking away from gossip and speaking good about others, we set the tone for the type of information we internalize.
Interestingly, this isn’t the modern creation of a kinder, gentler era, this is something that has been required of spiritual people throughout history. Years ago, King David taught, “Who is the man who desires life and loves length of days that he may see good? Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit. Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” (Psalm 34:12-14). Let’s set a standard for our lives based upon speaking good about others. When we do, our lives will be better and our relationships will be stronger.
Think About It!

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