CRITICISM

Definition of Criticism:
The analysis and judgement of the merits and faults of someone or something.

Synonyms of Criticism:
Commentary, evaluation, assessment, appreciation, appraisal, analysis, judgement, etc.

These notes are from recovery in AA and related 12 step programs.
Readers are encouraged to click external links for more detail.
We hope you find them helpful.

Love in fellowship.

I’m certain that had it not been for its strong critics, A.A. would have made slower progress. For myself, I have come to set a high value on the people who have criticized me, whether they have seemed reasonable critics or unreasonable ones.

Both have often restrained me from doing much worse than I actually have done. –As Bill Sees It | More… (p.326)

When we are angered and hurt, it’s difficult not to retaliate in kind. Yet we can restrain ourselves and then probe ourselves, asking whether our critics were really right.

If so, we can admit our defects to them. This usually clears the air for mutual understanding. . . Maybe a sense of humour can be our saving grace — thus we can both forgive and forget. –As Bill Sees It | More… (p.184)

You move toward and become that which you think about. Creating a vision is what guides our lives. If we get off track with our vision, then we experience conflict. Conflict is nature’s way of telling us we are not in harmony. Criticism can be a way for one human being to help another. Often our Elders will give us criticism. This feedback is intended to be helpful. Criticism from our Elders helps us grow strong. –Elders Meditations | More…