If you’ve been reading my blog for any length of time, you’ve likely heard me mention “the Four Guards”. Who are the Four Guards? Well, they’re guards that should be standing in front of your mouth. And, if your words can’t pass by all four of them, then they shouldn’t be said. No questions asked.
So what are these guards? They ask the following 4 questions:
- Is it wise?
- Is it kind?
- Is it true?
- Is it necessary?
I learned about these guards way back in high school and it’s a story that has stuck with me through all the years of my life!
Very few people pay attention to things like this these days. I see/hear so many people just spouting off words, with no regard to what those words might mean to others. People just don’t care anymore if they are speaking truth or if they are hurting someone’s feelings. Something might very well be true, but it is likely not kind or necessary.
I think that the March Hare from Alice in Wonderland must have also been taught about the Four Guards; because this quote seems very similar to me. Much like the sentiment that I try to instill in my children’s minds – “if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t speak”.
May the March Hare and the Four Guards be reminders to us all – THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK! Think about your words. Think about who will be hearing those words. Think about the feelings of others.
*I’m linking this post up to this week’s Destination Disney in Quotes.
