In my critique group today, I got help with my writing. I remember when I was in my twenties when I would get criticism that I would take it, but it would be difficult. These days it doesn’t upset me as much. I thought about it, and I would like to believe that it is because I have a thicker skin, but I don’t think that is the reason why.
I think the reason why I can take criticism better is because of God. God has taught me to accept myself as I am. I know that there’s absolutely nothing wrong with me. No one can give me any criticism that will make me think that God made a mistake in creating me. I have faith He didn’t. So, anytime anyone gives me any type of criticism of my writing or anything else for that matter, I really can’t take it personally. I just realize that the person is trying to be helpful.
When I try to be helpful, even if I do it badly, I don’t mean it with malicious intent and I would hope that the other person sees that I have the best intent and love in my heart. And if that is what I would want then when someone tries to be helpful with me, then I want to try to see that they have the best intent and the love of God in their heart.
It’s the weirdest quirk, but I was afraid to give anyone a compliment on anything at all. I thought that if I did that somehow they would be offended that I pointed something out about them. Today, I saw a checker at the grocery store, and I complimented him on his hair. Because of my OCD, I still am worried that I offended him, but I took a chance and did it anyway. I no long worry that my saying something to someone is going to offend them. Instead I try to take a chance and show them love and hope they will respond to the love that I am showing. Just like I would do if someone showed me love.
That’s the other thing God has taught me: To treat others and love others the way that I would want to be loved. I shouldn’t be afraid to show others love and I shouldn’t be afraid to love myself.
Often times, it isn’t about having a thick skin. It’s about loving yourself enough to be able to take criticism for what it is and still love yourself as God loves you.
My faith saved me. May God’s peace reside in all of our hearts.
