To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing. ~ Elbert Hubbard
I am not a big fan of being criticized, but I certainly can accept it and, hopefully, learn from it and get better. I love what Norman Vincent Peale said, “The trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism.”
By the way, Elbert Hubbard’s thought (above) is seldom that accurate. Even if you follow his logic, there will hopefully be some who will criticize you for doing, saying, and being nothing!
Years ago I read the book, DAWS. It was a biography of Dawson Trotman. He was the founder to the Navigators ministry to active duty military personnel, and worked with Billy Graham to develop Graham’s counseling at large crusades, and the follow up for those who indicated some decision made at those. Daws also helped Bill Bright develop the discipleship arm of Campus Crusade for Christ.
Daws commented in the book about how he handled criticism. He said that he learned to take the criticism, honestly and humbly evaluate it, learn from what was applicable, and throw the rest away! What great advise.
As you move into the weekend, review your week. Have you received criticism? How have you handled it? How should you handle it in a way that helps you grow and be better?
Remember what Sir Winston Churchill (a man who received much criticism in life, and yet was a great world leader) said:
“Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfils the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.”
So, honestly evaluate the criticism, find any truth that is there, decide to do better, and be thankful that someone cared enough to tell you!
Remember: “Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.” Proverbs 27:6
Make your’s a Great Weekend!
Danny