Gossip, Rumors, and other negativity

I am not one for drama.  I prefer to avoid conflicts and only stand up for things when I really feel I have to and because of that it seems that everyone comes to me with all of thee gossip, rumors, and drama that is swirling about.  Honestly, it is my fault.  I have let people do this for the last couple of years.  I think I have just realized I need to remove myself from it and be more vocal to stop it.  I have also allowed myself to be sucked in to it on occasion and participated more than I should.  So because of that, it is time for me to take a step back and prioritize who my friends are, stand up for people, and try to put an end to being someone to come too with all of the juicy information.  There is a difference between being a friend and listening to a complaint or issue and sitting by while they spew negativity that may or may not be true about others.  Especially when I don't know the other people involved.  Gossip is basically one side of the story and I know there are at least 3 sides to everything.  Each person has their own version of the truth and then there is the actual truth.  Most gossip is even further removed from the person telling it because they aren't present to start with and are continuing to further a story that has been through who knows how many people first.  Do you remember playing telephone as a child?  It goes from something innocent like so and so was at the park to She was at the park with this person and she was beating her kids.  From this point on, I am going to try and only forward on things that are necessary and that I have knowledge of.  Not furthering gossip and rumors or putting out negative information that is no one's business but those involved.  I have to do this for my own sanity.  I am busy enough without extra drama that doesn't even involve me.  


Whoever gossips to you will gossip about you.  ~Spanish Proverb

 What you don't see with your eyes, don't witness with your mouth.  ~Jewish Proverb