The War on Wisdom Sample

Somewhere in my adult life, I was part of a team. We had a staff meeting and our leader was discussing our policy and values. We spoke about rules of engagement and the leader made the following statement: “On this team, we will not gossip. I want you to know that your name will be safe in my mouth.” It was the first time I ever heard that statement, but it has stayed with me up to this day.

I saw a cartoon in my mind of a shark befriending a little fish, gently carrying his friend in his mouth. The shark had the power to finish off his friend in one bite, but his love for his friend made him choose not to.

In close relationships, the weaknesses and shortcomings of the people involved are exposed. We get offended and see how our friends sometimes offend others. In these situations, we can make the choice to speak the truth in love, to confront privately and forgive quickly and often, and not to bring it up in future or repeat it in public conversation.

In love, we can keep the names of our friends safe in our mouths.