Have you ever played a game of telephone, where a message gets hilariously muddled as it's whispered from person to person? Seneca's observation isn't too far off. In our daily lives, we're often entrusted with information, yet it's human nature to want to share a story—or what we remember of it.

The problem is, details can change in the retelling, whether we mean to or not. This isn't just about gossip; it's about the responsibility that comes with communication. Consider the last time you passed along something you heard: Did the story warp a little, perhaps influenced by your own perspectives or emotions? Did you keep the source confidential, as you should, or did it slip out?

This rings as true today as it did in ancient times; our words have power, and with that power comes the duty to be both accurate and discreet. In a world of instant sharing and social media, Seneca’s words serve as a reminder to guard our tongues.

Before you retell a story, ask yourself: Is it necessary? Is it kind to all involved? By sharing, are you respecting privacy, or perhaps unintentionally spreading misinformation?

Strive to be someone who can be trusted to preserve the integrity of a story and the anonymity of its source.

After all, trust is the bedrock of any relationship—personal or professional—and once eroded, it's not easily restored.