Article March 14, 1903 Issue

The Habit of Criticism

EDWARD C. AVERY.

In Galatians, 6 : 1, we read, "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted," and Paul covers the whole ground in that single verse. If we were to consider the way in which we undertake the restoration, we should find that the fault is suggested, we listen, talk it over and condemn; and often our self-righteousness underlies the judgment. A fault in one we love is overlooked, while it is mercilessly condemned in one for whom we have no affection. Charity covers a multitude of sins, and we should allow our seeming enemies the same consideration that we do our friends. What the world most needs is brotherly love in its highest sense, and to bring this about was the great effort of Jesus of Nazareth,—to bring man to love his fellow-man and thereby to know and love God.

To criticise is really a silly pastime, and we should avoid it, since criticism is so often based simply upon our likes and dislikes, which are outgrown by the understanding that God is Love.

"Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy," said Jesus, and Science and Health, page 17, reads, "And infinite Love is reflected in love." What we manifest is largely the result of the atmosphere of thought and circumstances under which we have grown, and we should always ask ourselves, Shall we help or hinder our brother's growth by this statement? "The quality of mercy is not strained," and if shown by us to all to whom it rightfully belongs, we shall find the same in our inheritance when in need of that most beautiful characteristic of Love.

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