One day some years ago, I was with a group of people when suddenly they began to gossip. They were attacking a friend of mine. They were spreading ugly, vicious rumors about him. They were crucifying my friend with harsh, cruel words.

I started to say something to defend my friend. I wanted to say something to stop the verbal abuse but I didn’t know those people very well… so I kept my silence.

But, later as I walked to my car, I was kicking myself. I was feeling sad and ashamed that I hadn’t seized the opportunity to stand tall and speak out for my friend. Why didn’t I speak up? Why didn’t I say something to turn the conversation? Why didn’t I say a good word for my friend?

Then I heard it… the unmistakable sound of a rooster crowing way off in the distance. Let me ask you something……