Backing The Wrong Horse

Mistakes in life are many.

We've all made a few.

I've made 'a few'...uh hum-cough- several.
Heck, none of us are perfect or can predict five minutes ahead of ourselves. So making mistakes is very normal...that is, when they are done with good intent and a pure heart.

Errs that occur out of sheer accidents or misunderstandings are natural, and forgivable. I mean, everyone needs a break. So when they say, "Oops! screwed up. I'm sorry." We smile and say, "You got it. No problem," and forgive.

But there is another kind of mistake that takes on a bit of a bitterness...dare I say, nastiness?

Here's an example;

Let's say you are at the office water cooler, you know, that cliche spot all the employees hang around for gossip...there you are in your crisp business attire, coffee in hand, leaning on the counter to hear what the hub-bub is about. Normal so far?
Okay, you hear a rumor...something as simple as...'Oh! Did you know so-and-so forgot her keys at home? But really flushed them down the toilet and doesn't want anyone to know?'
Harmless... Still with me? So you may laugh and repeat the story to another employee just for a silly chuckle.

But-What if you hear something more sinister? Like so-and-so is taking over the planet, owns a space laser blaster gun and is planning on driving a tank through main street shooting it?

You pause to consider the possibilities. Unlikely, you think, but heck, everyone around the water cooler thinks so-and-so is capable. Okay. I'll buy it!
You then perpetuate the prevailing gossip that an individual you all know (snicker) is going to do something really bad to many people.

You partake in the verbal witch hunt, add wood to the pyre, isolate that individual, spread more manure around for good measure, because, after all, it sounded right at the time. And its good fun to be part of a group of people who hate!

But-- what if you were wrong?
What if that so-and-so actually just donated a new wing to the children's hospital and is going to throw a benefit party in honor of the achievement. But you're not invited. No. You backed the wrong horse.

Okay, the above story is an exaggeration of course, but making a mistake like that? Adding venom to words that have no basis in reality, simply because of a lynch mob mentality?

Oh, honey, very foolish indeed.
Over and over again I write bogs about karma, being kind, treating others with respect, giving others the benefit of the doubt, or simply when there is doubt, ask.

Life is a funny thing. When you fuck with people and royally hurt them? It's tough to ask for favors or kindness back. Least of all gain an ally or reference.

Backing the wrong horse. Be very careful when you become complicit in someone else's harm. VERY CAREFUL INDEED. Because some mistakes cause so much damage you would have to be indeed 'divine' to forgive them.

Be safe out there, and be nice to each other!!! fer cryin' out loud!
It ain't that hard, people!!!