Tuesday, June 5, 2012

criticism, gotta love it

Two towers of boxes, from floor to ceiling in the storage unit.  That was my daughter’s clothing from birth to age three.  She was the first granddaughter on both sides, so perhaps she was a little spoiled.  Perhaps. 

I was telling my friend about all of these clothes, and he said, “Why do you still have all of those?”   

“Well, I don’t know.  Just hangin’ onto them” I said. 

He looked me in the eye and said, “You’re hoarding.” 

His words were a slap.

He was right.  My husband and I were done having kids, and I just couldn’t bear to part with all those ruffles and memories. 

My friend’s words burrowed deep, and I couldn’t escape them.   

A few days later I pulled out a few favorite items and gave the rest of the clothing away to friends who needed the hand-me-downs.  Several years later I talked to one friend who had several daughters.  She said all of her girls had worn and were still wearing those clothes, and she was so thankful I had shared. 

Proverbs 23:9 (NIV) says, “Don’t speak to a fool, for he will despise the insight of your words.” 

I appreciate that my friend spoke words of criticism to me.  I’m glad I listened to his insight and gave instead of hoarding.  I don’t want to be a fool.  I hope I’m never too proud and stubborn to accept a hard word and allow it to change me, even if hearing the word stings for a bit. 

How do you respond to constructive criticism?

1 comment:

  1. I might have a small bin that keeps getting bigger with a few baby girl outfits. :)
    Constructive criticism is always hard for me when I have my prideful walls up. I pray every day for a humble heart.

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