Blemishes in Christian Character No. 6

"A Christian, by tenor of his high calling, is bound to avoid even the appearance of evil; and should as free as possible from every inconsistence and blemish."

“Blemish No. 6. CURIOSUS is upright and unblameable in his general deportment, and is no stranger to the experience of a true Christian. His conversation upon these subjects is often satisfactory and edifying. He would be a much more agreeable companion, were it not for an impertinent desire of knowing everybody's business, and the very grounds of every hint that is occasionally dropped in discourse where he is present. This puts him upon asking a multiplicity of needless and improper questions; and obliges those who know him, to be continually upon their guard, and to treat him with reserve. He catechises even strangers, and is unwilling to part with them till he is punctually informed of all their connections, employments, and designs. For this idle curiosity he is marked and avoided as a busy-body; and they who have the best opinion of him, cannot but wonder that a man, who appears to have so many better things to employ his thoughts, should find leisure to amuse himself with what does not at all concern him. Were it not for the rules of civility, he would be affronted every day: And if he would attend to the cold and evasive answers he receives, or even to the looks with which they are accompanied, he might learn, that, though he means no harm, he appears to a great disadvantage, and that this prying disposition is very unpleasing.”

One of the Pennsylvania Dutch words I remember from my childhood is "Goonernoss." As I remember the meaning it fits Curiosus perfectly. I can still hear my mother say, "Don't be a goonernoss." I hope none of you kids can be accused of being a "goonernoss.” You may have forgotten, but I often told you to never listen to any conversation or read any writing that was not meant for you. I can honestly say that has been my practice over the years.

I trust you all had a good Lord's Day, DAD