Believe it or not, the word gossip once meant that a person was a “God-sib,” or “a relative in the sight of God.” The term was applied to “God-parents” who were expected to form a warm relationship with the family of a newborn child. In its early usage the term gossip thus came to mean “to confide something good.”
In an imaginary story, Smith and Jones attended the same church, but they never agreed on anything. This worried deacon Brown, so he decided to intervene. He visited Smith and asked, “What do you think of Jones?” “He’s the meanest crank around!” Smith replied. “But,” said Brown, “you have to admit that he is very kind to his family.” “Oh, sure, he’s kind to his family.”
The next day deacon Brown went to Jones and said, “Smith said you were very kind to your family. What do think of Smith?” “Oh, he’s a scalawag!” “But you have to admit that he’s very honest in business,” replied Brown. “Yes, he is honest in business.”
Deacon Brown called on Smith again the next day. ”Do you know that Jones says you are very honest in business?” “Well, of all things!” replied Smith. On Sunday, Smith and Jones nodded to each other in church, so Brown continued his “meddling.” At the next annual business meeting of the church, Smith and Jones smiled, and finally they voted on the same side!
We need more “gossips” like deacon Brown. – Henry G. Bosch
If any little word of ours
Can make one life the brighter,
God help us speak that cheerful word
To make a heart beat lighter! – Anon.
Talk about others the same way you want others to talk about you.
- July 2, 1988, Our Daily Bread
For You 