Character Assassinations

Many of us can recall instances of people making unkind or untrue comments. Whether during our school or college years or during our job or career we've all been exposed to individuals who are quite comfortable spreading untruths. Why is it so easy to believe negative comments we hear? What happened to innocent until proven guilty or of giving someone the benefit of the doubt?

It is up to each of us whether to participate in character assassinations. In the Bible, John 8:7 AMP, it states "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone...". It is not up to us to judge a person's character. It is, however, up to each of us to ensure that we are truthful in and with our communications.

I've learned that individuals who initiate untruths:
* may oftentimes be jealous and or covet what another individual may possess.
* have a need to make someone else look bad in order for them to look good.
* may have feelings of low self-esteem which can cause hurtful behavior towards others.

Although each of the above bullet points are generalizations, we each have to determine the role we want to play when exposed to untruths. We have the option of walking away, of refusing to listen. If the comments are about us we can correct the untruth or we can ignore it. Remember, those that really know us will not buy into untruths.

For the individuals choosing to spread the untruths, is there some soul-searching required on your part? What do you get out of spreading rumors or of making up falsehoods? What comes out of our mouths reflect on us. Be accountable for the things you say. Selfish motives for participating in character assassinations will eventually be exposed.

If you are the subject of petty rumors and untruths, you do not have to defend yourself. John Wooden's quote "Be more concerned with your character than your reputation. Your character is what you really are while your reputation is merely what others think you are" is a good quote to live by. Judgments others make about us does not make their assessment correct.

If you find yourself in a situation whereby a judgment is required, make sure you have all the facts. Deception and or gossip should not be part of our lives. We are each responsible for our own conduct. Don't condone the behavior of those individuals promoting untruths and hearsay. And above all, don't compromise your values by engaging in character assassinations.