((CRITICISM: providing useful commentary meant to assist realistic improvement. NOT a concerted negativity meant to tear down or otherwise demean. Witches welcome; Trolls need not apply.))

I am not afraid of criticism. In fact, I welcome criticism; I know I lack objectivity in some areas, and outside input is helpful – my skin is thick and I do not take criticism personally. I invite review and input as a) knowledge is power, and b) the big idea can be hidden anywhere. The more experienced I become, the more important criticism is to me…..but it never stops me from doing as I please.

“I never worry about my two daughters doing what they want to do because my two daughters have always done exactly what they want to do.”  My Mother

Recently, I received an interesting piece of criticism:

“Stop asking for criticism. You’re asking people to give you reasons to hold you back from being the voice. Worry about improvements later. Just keep writing.” 

And hidden within was a piece of information I could not have anticipated – the idea I would allow myself to be silenced by criticism. Me – vocal feminist in a blue collar family, speaking out against chauvinism since ten years old – silenced by criticism (“Oh, if only.” I hear my grade school teachers commiserating). I laughed out loud at the very idea until the important message came through to me: she fears criticism will stop me (it won’t!) because she knows it has stopped others.

I am bothered by the idea criticism would stop anyone from expressing themselves. Everyone has a voice if they want it – this realization might be seen as dangerous (by people, churches, schools, special interest groups, etc.) – and some of those voices will be critical. And that is the true beauty of freedom; to think, to speak, to express, to discuss, to share. However, freedom requires bravery; to speak out loud is to invite commentary, including criticism, and the ability to accept criticism with dignity has become rare in this graceless age.

I suggest we all toughen up; play fair, keep score, and no attendance awards. Be yourself, speak your mind, and do not fear criticism. You may step on some toes from time to time but no one dies from sore toes. Accept criticism with grace, refuse to take it personally, learn from it when you can, and use it for future growth as you need.

Never let criticism stop you.