Article June 12, 1902 Issue

Criticism vs. Praise

BY W. E. B.

A careful consideration of human criticism and praise yields much food for thought. Our text-book, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," clearly shows us that the way to escape all the ills of mortality is to become conscious of Truth, and it also teaches that before this goal is reached, we have much work to do in overcoming all that is unlike Christ. One of the most helpful agencies to this end is criticism. It matters little whether it is just or unjust. In either event it enables us to throw the searchlight of Truth in the direction indicated. If unjust, no harm has been done, but on the contrary we are provided with an opportunity for demonstration. If the criticism is merited, then should we look upon it as a most helpful friend who has called attention to an error in our problem and thus given us an opportunity to correct it.

Suppose one were a sculptor who had devoted much thought and time to his image in stone and had at last apparently finished his work. He is now ready to send his creation to be judged as to its merit. At this point a friend calls his attention to a bit of marble that needs chipping off to make the work symmetrical, and the grateful sculptor hastens to knock off the marring particle, realizing that his friend has rendered him an invaluable service. So if we are really in earnest in the work of bringing out the perfect man, we shall welcome and even desire criticism at all times in place of its opposite called praise.

Mortal mind likes to listen to smooth sayings, and if it cannot get others to praise its actions it cultivates selfpraise. This attitude of thought which craves and seeks praise or commendation loses sight of one of the most important points in acquiring an understanding of Truth. In this connection, Jesus said, "I can of mine own self do nothing." A realization of the truth of this statement will eradicate the longing for praise and will create an earnest desire to direct praise where it rightfully belongs,—to God. Science and Health teaches explicity that at best we are only reflections of Truth; that we of ourselves cannot create or originate anything. Hence we are not entitled to praise and we should not receive it when offered. Praise puffeth up, creates self-satisfaction, and blinds us to a knowledge of the true and only cause—infinite Mind, while criticism, if we are in earnest, awakens us, improves our mental condition, clears the vision, and promotes growth.

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