Speaking ill behind backs causes harm

Criticizing someone who is not present seems like a social sport without consequences. But spreading the defects or faults of another, without a serious reason, causes them real harm: it robs them of reputation and trust, and often the story grows and is distorted along the way. There is a clear difference between discussing a problem with someone who can help solve it and enjoying telling bad things about another. The second pollutes the environment, subtracts peace, and, curiously, also leaves you worse off. Guarding the tongue is not hypocrisy: it is respect. If something must be said, say it to their face, with charity. And if someone gossips with you, there is no need to go along with them.