Everyone had lived this scenario: Your friend comes up to you and pulls you aside. In a hushed voice they tell you a rumor they had heard about you, and they want to know if it is true. It might be, or it might be a complete lie. What is so surprising is that it got around to them in the first place, and tracing the source back could be easy, or it could be impossible. Gossip is an unfortunate part of being a teenager, and can sometimes stretch into adulthood, as well. Sometimes the gossip is harmless enough, but the wider problem can stain so many lives that it is easy to see why it is discouraged. Despite this, it is more prevalent than ever, as we enter into an era of open, anonymous sharing via the web, texting, and social networking sites. But is being a gossip really a big deal? Read More