Stories of Kindness from Around the World

Being Criticized
What is our reaction when someone makes a critical comment about our appearance, our way of speaking, or the ways we go about our work? Those who make the comments may not realize that they are being critical; they may even feel they are helping us in some way. Do we take it in the spirit it was intended or are we hurt by the comments? What they have said may affect how we perceive ourselves, forever change the way we dress or speak. Whether they intended it or not they have left a negative impression on our self-esteem or our self-image. It may take years to undo the effects or very little time at all. In time we may come to realize that it is not always us the person is trying to change but something they feel insecure about in themselves. When we come to this realization we are able to let the comments go, freeing ourselves to live our lives in the manner we feel is best for us not how someone else feels we should. We learn and grow from the comments of others as well as being more aware of how our own words can hurt even when our intention is to help. Please feel free to share, if you are so inspired. Picture taken by TC
Please Note: I am taking a few days to rest, relax and rejuvenate and will return on September 6th.