“Through our words, we can wound reputations in a matter of seconds, and the damage can irreparable.” Days later, the Gospel from Mass on Monday is still echoing in my ears and heart. It is a familiar image from the Sermon on the Mount, but one that I probably need to meditate on every day. “Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own eye?” How easy it is for me to judge my neighbor, believing I can know the deepest thoughts of their hearts, their intentions, and motivations. How quickly I assume I know best or that my views or actions are superior. It’s easy to make a comment, to fire off a tweet, or to assert an opinion without even pausing to think of the effect of my words. Gossip is struggle for me. When I examine my conscience for confession and try to determine “kind and number,” I realize with horror that “number” is almost impossible to determine. How often do I lapse into gossip without even realizing that I am doing it?
The Pernicious Sin of Gossip — Integrated Catholic Life™
The Pernicious Sin of Gossip — Integrated Catholic Life™
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