How to avoid gossip, according to the ‘The Imitation of Christ’

Through the years many holy men and women found consolation in one particular piece spiritual classic. It is entitled The Imitation of Christand was written by a German priest named Thomas à Kempis  in the 15th century.

It was a major influence in the life of St. Thomas More, who believed it should be one of the three books everyone should own.

Here are five quotes from the The Imitation of Christ on how to avoid gossip.

When the right and opportune moment comes for speaking, say something that will edify.Shun the gossip of men as much as possible, for discussion of worldly affairs, even though sincere, is a great distraction inasmuch as we are quickly ensnared and captivated by vanity.Why, indeed, do we converse and gossip among ourselves when we so seldom part without a troubled conscience? We do so because we seek comfort from one another’s conversation and wish to ease the mind wearied by diverse thoughts.Bad habits and indifference to spiritual progress do much to remove the guard from the tongue. Devout conversation on spiritual matters, on the contrary, is a great aid to spiritual progress, especially when persons of the same mind and spirit associate together in God.We must watch and pray lest time pass idly.