Gossip: The Jaded Whining of the Socially Depraved

**Warning: the following content can be identified as “no-holds-barred” and, as such, might offend those of weaker constitution. If you are subject to fits of rage, tantrums, or are easily “triggered”, it might be best for you to turn back and enter your “safe space”.**

Have you ever heard from a friend of a friend that “so-and-so” said “such-and-such” about you? Or perhaps you have been the person to spread a whispered rumor or two for the sake of personal gain? If the former, I offer my sympathy for having been the victim of malicious gossip, and if the latter, you have my utmost contempt.

Utmost? Contempt?! Too harsh, you say? Allow me, then, to break it down for you in terminology simple enough for your plain-thinking mind to grasp. Gossip is a blight on any civilized society, for several reasons, and those who would partake and spread the venom are contributors to the devolution of a more evolved process of thought. You see, when we stoop so low as to speak negatively about any person behind their back, we are avoiding a crucial component that any people group needs to survive: confrontation.

Bear with me, for by no means am I suggesting that arguments or fighting are the solution to a conflict. To peacefully confront someone, however, is not only possible but I would suggest that it is necessary to our survival, whether it’s something as seemingly trivial as facing the “reject” that broods silently in the corner or getting in the face of an angry and bitter individual. For example, the reject could actually be plotting either his demise or even yours, though he might simply be the type to thrive on solitude. How can you know if all you do is whisper, point and judge in secret?

Gossip can only harm, but I would argue that it is also an indicator of a deeper issue, at least for many, because there are two main categories to those who spread rumors: those who garner some twisted satisfaction from the whispers, and those who so desperately crave attention that they are willing to grasp the spotlight through any means necessary. The truth can be seen in the eyes, as the “windows to the soul” (one of the truest statements ever recorded, by the way). There is always a tell, for the former will have a sort of gleam as they observe the cause-and-effect of their hushed verbal attacks, while the latter will have a desperate sort of plea behind each sad iris.

While I can certainly sympathize with those who simply crave attention, I’ve not even a single iota of respect for either party. Both have the same result: rumors fly, feelings are damaged (see, “Sticks & Stones: Utter Nonsense”) and a hostile environment is created. So in the end, there is only one solution, and that is to face our issues head-on. No skulking about in the shadows, giggling and weaving devious machinations that only serve to destroy and divide. You’re better than that, or at least you should strive to be far above such primitive urges. Your fellow man will thank you, even if the gratitude is never voiced. Who knows, you might even manage to avoid the perhaps well-deserved flogging for your inappropriate behavior. In any case, should you elect to stay your tongue from the raging fire that it can easily become, you will never have to find out just how terrible your words can potentially be.

Copyright © 2018 D.M. Kurtz