We undertake the precept of refraining from false speech. We agree to make every effort to speak that which is true and useful and refrain from gossip. We agree to hold in confidence what is explicitly told to us in confidence. We agree to cultivate conscious and clear communication, and to cultivate the qualities of lovingkindness and honesty as the basis of our speech.
— Geri Larkin, The Still Point Dhammapada