I've often admired that statement.    I never really thought it always necessary, at least not until recently in life.   Due diligence can be found in other terms like cover your ass, and even read into the idiom "Speak softly but carry a big stick."

You see, as a man that has been falsely accused of things by someone I cared for, I have to say I get the idea behind due diligence and how speak softly but carry a big stick has similar meaning. To most of us the latter means, "try to get along, but be prepared to use force to make sure the people you are directing do as you say." 

But for me, I've learned it means this.  "Be nice, but cover your ass."  It also means, "Do the right thing, but make sure you have protection against those that you trust the most".  Be kind and decent folks but don't leave yourself open to being used.

I've written articles about men (or women) being vulnerable when in love, and anyone that has been married knows you are most vulnerable when married.  Your trust is then completely wide open.  I could write an entire book on this subject but I'll stay off it now.

As a man whom is victim of betrayal, it changed me.  While I am happily dating, the word love seems almost alien to me. I don't think it an impossible word, but the change in me is stark and striking from how I was when married.  

Where am I headed with this?

Well, when you find out you were in the company of pure evil, you realize you need to take a cold hard look in the mirror and learn how to never be taken advantage of again.   How does one do that?  This ...   more »