This is a bit of a companion piece to the one yesterday about worrying about what others think of you.
Remember two things. If they are talking about you negatively behind your back they deserve the arse treatment.
If they are talking about someone else behind their back and want you to join in, protect yourself and honor the person not present by giving them the arse treatment.
See them for who they are. They are damagers (yes, I just made that word up) because they are damaged. They work desperately to find a way to make the world in their damaged image instead of changing themselves to a less damaged self. They deserve your compassion and help but not at the expense of your ethical and social safety.
Now, of course this sounds self-righteous talking about ‘they’ as if I, you, never gossip, never talk behind other peoples’ backs. We do. So, start to look around you. If you see a lot of arses you might need to reconsider your own way as well!
Drawing and commentary © Marty Coleman
“My arse contemplates those who talk behind my back.” – Francis Picabia, 1879-1953, French artist and poet. He contributed to the evolution of impressionism, cubism, fauvism, dadaism and surrealism.