Week 6: Quote

The Power Of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale170-257Pages read this week so far: 87

“The trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism”

This quote is about human nature and the need for acceptance. People obviously would rather have positive feedback than negative feedback but it is important for people to receive criticism for his or her mistakes. Peale is saying that people would prefer to be lied to and be told good things than to have the truth if it is negative. This part of human nature is dangerous. People are so controlled by his or her pride that he or she would prefer to have false info then be offended.

One aspect of society that I find extremely annoying is how easily people can get offended by the smallest things. People seem to think that his or her opinions or feelings about something are more important than others and expect people to change their actions to satisfy him or her. This privileged mindset can only lead to more issues. It is important for people to hear the truth even if it is painful. Everyone wants acceptance but in order to get acceptance, it is important to respect other peoples opinions and beliefs even if they are different.

I never knew how important criticism was until it helped me change my ways. I used to be so selfish when I was a kid. Things finally changed when someone called me out for it. I did not like hearing it at the time but I've come to realize that that person was right when they called me selfish. I never would have been able to improve my behavior had I not received that criticism. It is important for people to have that second point of view of his or her decisions. Often times people are so caught up with his or her lives that he or she may forget to think about what needs improvements.