Is it possible to ever come to the point where it is easy to accept criticism?
I used to loathe it when someone critiqued me. I was very apt to get my feelings hurt. The thought that someone didn’t like the way I did something, or, horror of horrors, that I was doing something completely wrong, cut to the quick. That person was henceforth on my black list as someone “who didn’t like me”.
Something happened over the years called “facing myself”. Somehow life brought me enough circumstances and failures that slowly I came to the realization that my way was not the only way to do something. I guess you could also call it humbling oneself.
In the deepest recesses of my heart, I wanted to become a better person. A better Christian, better wife, better mom, and better friend. But in order to do that, I would have to set aside my pride and my “damaged feelings” and learn to accept criticism.
Those who struggle with this truly need to realize that 99% of criticism is done out of the goodness of the other person’s heart. It is when it reaches our ears and our heart that it gets twisted up.
It is a truly humbling experience to have someone critique you. I’m still learning this trait, but I’ve found that the first question I must ask myself is this: “Is there any grain of truth to what they are saying?” Almost always there is. Then I can take the grain of truth, apply it to my life, and discard the rest.
And then there are times when I must realize there is 100% truth in what they are saying and I must go back and say, “I’m sorry, I truly was wrong.”
So is it ever easy to accept criticism? No, but I’m learning there is so much value in it that I’d rather live with it than without it.
Now, if you want, you may critique this post!
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Darlene B says
Bless you,Kendra! You are such an inspiration to me! <3 ya!
Kendra Graber says
As you moreso are to me….:)
Arlene says
I was thinking recently, if we desire a greater commitment in our walk with HIM, we really must look deeply at Matt. 18 and realize all our critics are, are putty in the hands of our GOD working to refine us into HIS image by chisling away at ‘self’.
“O Father, release me of my high esteem of ‘self’ and make my all to be centered on THEE, through the work of those I labor among.”
Love your blog Kendra. I always wait for your next posting!
TO GOD BE THE GLORY!