Gossip Machines

I try not to feed
Gossip Machines
As they are often
Untrue and mean

I can’t say I never fed them
Because that would be untrue
In my weaker moments I gossiped
Though I now work hard not to

Gossip Machines feel the need
To tear other folks down
But it’s the cruel act of a coward
If their victims aren’t around

So now when I talk about people
I attempt to follow a rule
I only share things about them
That are kind, helpful, and true.

–Russ Towne

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About russtowne

I'm awed by the beauty of nature and the power of love and gratitude. Some of my favorite sensory experiences include waves crashing on rocky shores, waterways in ancient redwood and fern-filled forests, and rain. My wife and I have been married since 1979. We have 3 adult children and 5 grandchildren. I manage a wealth management firm that I founded in 2003. My Beloved is a Special Education teacher for Kindergartners and First Graders. I'm a published author of approximately 60 books in a variety of genres for grownups and children.
This entry was posted in Choices, Communicating, Kindness, LIfe Lessons, My Beliefs, Poetry I Wrote, Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

11 Responses to Gossip Machines

  1. gita4elamats's avatar gita4elamats says:

    Good sentiments. 🙂

  2. I try not to say behind their back what I haven’t said to their face…

  3. What a great philosophy to live by… 🙂

  4. bulldog's avatar bulldog says:

    A good way to be…

  5. JanBeek's avatar JanBeek says:

    My mom always taught me, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” I try to live with that as my mantra. Another good reminder from you, Russ. Thank you! I like your poetry, by the way ;o)

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