reputation

It seems that people have no problem destroying the reputation of others, including those who used to be friends. Why is it that we feel free to air dirty laundry and frustration about friends with others, in effect destroying their reputation? If you have a problem with another person, then why don't you go to that person and talk with him or her rather than join in the sin of detraction or defamation with others. It all comes down to how we handle conflict, and frankly, many people, including those who call themselves committed Catholics, fail in handling conflict. It is very disappointing to find that some people have no problem throwing away friendships because of misunderstanding, a misunderstanding that could probably be cleared up with some honest talk. But even if you have no desire to reconcile, there can be NO EXCUSE for sharing in the sin of destroying another's reputation. During this Christmas season, let us search our hearts and find if we have failed in this area and seek out confession.