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OK, let’s just say I’ve been on the receiving end of malicious and hurtful gossip.
If you’re wondering why, let me paraphrase Bob Seger: I was young and restless and bored. Like many 20 year old kids (and yes, I do believe they’re still kids at that age), I didn’t use the best judgment. I became friends with a married man.
Just friends, you understand. Nothing more.
In a small town, everyone knows your business. Everyone talks. Even local churchgoers (which doesn’t make me a huge fan of religious people to this day). All spread rumors that I was trouble . . . which almost prevented me from having one of the most respectful, romantic relationships I’ve ever had.
The small town rumor mill was one of the main reasons why I gathered up my courage and left the safety of the tiny town where I grew up, which turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.
Looking back, I can say that I’m grateful for the lesson.
Been there, seen that, and have been on the receiving end of untruths. We also left a small town and moved to another and I remain basically friendless here because I do not want feel pain like that in the past, and I am happy! Really liked this post thanks for sharing it!
I understand fully. The rumor mills in said small town ran rampant with my own family falling victim at times. You know, they say that children can be so cruel, but I guess some adults just never grow up and can also be cruel in what they say and spread. I’m so thankful we got out of there.
Your posts continue to enlighten, amaze and confound me. You seem to live a full and edgy life, doing what you love, and what is your passion. I’m not sure that I could be so “in-your-face” frank as you are, but mightily applaud your courage. Happy to know that by leaving you found your serendipity.
La Verne@hopeandsalvage
Gossip is hurtful! Great reminder through quotes and fabulous pictures…..where were the men?
Ha! Believe it or not, Sarah, I did try to find vintage, gossipy-looking photos of men, but didn’t have any luck.
Kim,
Another Shelly (glad to see she spelled our name correctly!). Been there done that as well. The way I am now is, I know I am a good person who tries my best to be kind, loving and generous. As long as I know that and God knows it, let everyone else think and do as they please.
You seem like a lovely person. I can tell by the photos you pick for us every week that you have a good soul and a good heart.
To quote something I heard once: “I am not going to waste my brain cells thinking about what someone said or did to upset me!”
Blessings,
Shelly
Thank you for your kind words, Shelly. You’ve touched my heart. Plus, I believe you are absolutely right. Being the brunt of gossip sure makes you want to be more kind and nonjudgmental for sure.
I hate where I have lived since I was 5. I am fifty now and only staying because my husband will retire at his job. I hate the gossip , hate the people here. I talk to no one at work and stay home as much as possible and shop out of town. I can’t wait to get out of hereand see different people. People think you can’t hear them 2 feet away and as soon as they pass you they’re on it talking about you like they know you. I have been married for thirty years and no children. And I love to ” hear”. That I have been divorced twice and have 2 boys and take drugs. WHAT!!!? Get a life, losers in this town. I could care less about you or what you do. Thanks for posting this today, because everyone who is minding their own business and hiding from the gossipers to avoid the drama understands this post. Wish I could move to a cabin in the mountains nearby and not see ANYONE except to go get supplies once a month,
Hi Kim, sorry to read about the gossip problem. Hope you can put it behind you and enjoy the weekend.
Love the vintage words of wisdom.
Lisa
My mom always told us not to worry about what others said because “when someone is talking about you they are giving someone else a break”.
What a wonderful way to think about it! Your mom was a wise woman. 🙂
She still is. I am blessed to still have her as we lost my dad to cancer sixteen years ago at age seventy. My mom turned 81 in May and although age is slowing her down some she is still the feisty southern woman who raised five children.
You’re a lucky lady, Peggy.