Did you hear...?

Hi.  My name is Cassie and I am a.... gossip.  Whew...I feel much better now that that's out in the open. 

God has been getting my attention.  I am finding that specific words (like, authentic) and specific topics (gossip) will be brought to my attention over and over until I get the clue.  We are studying the book of James in church and had a wonderful message this weekend about temptations.  Our pastor, Ron, used gossip as an example of temptation.  Later that evening, our small group had a meeting.  Another member brought up the topic of gossip.  On my journey to becoming authentic, gossip is most definitely a stumbling block.  An authentic (true to the original, real, honest) woman does not feel the need to spread gossip. 

Let's talk about the definition of gossip. In the dictionary, gossip is defined as "idle talk or rumor".  Personally, spreading rumors typically doesn't tempt me.  I don't want to be the one passing along false information.  Now, idle talk, that hits a nerve with me.  I can justify passing along 'important' information to someone if that information is true.  I am a people pleaser.  In fact, let's just get it over with:  Hi.  My name is Cassie and I am a people pleaser.  I thrive when I can be the one telling someone something interesting.  It might be true.  It might even be okay to talk about.  But why?  Why do I feel the need to tell you?  Why do I want to be the first person you hear it from?  Is it the shock factor?  Do I like to see your response when you hear the news? 

No matter what the answer is, the solution is to stop.  If it doesn't concern me or you in a very direct way, it's not for me to spread.  If it's not edifying, if it's not uplifting to someone, it's gossip and is not allowed.  I noticed in the dictionary, one definition (archaic) says "woman".  I find that very interesting.  Are there more relational, people-pleasing women out there?  I long to be authentic.  I want to be pleasing to my Heavenly Father.  I do not want to be responsible for being a stumbling block to someone else.  I cannot blame it on being a woman.  I cannot blame it on those around me.  It's a temptation I have that I need to fight against.  If you find that I'm talking much less than normal, give me a pat on the back!  That can only mean that I am winning against the temptation of gossip!  Please pray for me and help me along my journey.  I will do the same for you.  We will be authentic!