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Discretion

Proverbs 11:22 reads, “Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.” The first time I saw this scripture, I was a preteen at a Christian summer camp. At the time, I had a crush on one of the older teenagers that worked there. For most young girls having a crush is common, so it wasn’t a huge deal…until I ran my mouth out of excitement, revealing this news to almost all the girls in my cabin. When one of my counselors found out, she did something I can now appreciate. She wrote me a letter and towards the end of it, mentioned Proverbs 11:22. My childish mind wasn’t able to process what she was trying to tell me, but as I got older, I got a revelation. Later in life, I would continue to go on making the same mistake; getting excited and showing no discretion, when it came to things I should’ve kept quiet about. Now? I’m really careful. I’ve fallen short many times when it came to sharing things with people I thought were friends, who honestly were better suited for titles such as - friendly associate, acquaintance, peer, and/or co-worker. When I think about some of the things I’ve shared with those people, I can see where I messed up. Friend is a title that gets tossed around too easily these days, to people who are unworthy and undeserving of the role. For me, the balance of what to share and what not to share, and being mindful of who I can be vulnerable with, is something I have to be careful about on a regular basis. As my life changes, the people in it do too. I don’t get brand new; I’m just trying to get better. Recognizing that I can’t talk openly with everybody I’ve connected with, helps me get a grip and act accordingly. Discretion is dope. My father once told me, “Never give away your whole hand.” Everything doesn't need to be announced. When I’m into a guy, got some new opportunities going on, closing deals or making moves, I’m quieter now. I keep my good news on the low, selectively share it with people in my life I’m close to, and go on about my business. I think you can chill with different people, share common interests, and bond, but being mindful about what you’re sharing, and with who is important to keep in mind. People should only know what you want them to know. Anything more borderlines over sharing, and the last thing you want to do is hand someone a loaded weapon, filled with too much information about you, that can be used to hurt you later. I’ve been burned plenty of times making this mistake. Be careful who you confide in, and think before sharing with different people.


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