(Minghui.org) "Accept criticism gladly" is referring to Zilu, a student of Confucius. He didn't mind being criticized. This leads me to think it shows that he was modest and broad minded.
Also, in ancient China a highly educated individual was supposed to be of such character. This tells me that as a Falun Dafa practitioner, we should hold to a much higher standard.
A practitioner needs to ask him or herself, “Have we reached the level of Zilu?”
Reactions to Being Criticized
From watching those around me I observed that there are four types of reactions when one is criticized:
1. One reacts angrily without looking inwards as to whether or not the accusation was justified. This could result in the individual pointing to a weakness of the accuser or leaving while suppressing his/her rage.
2. Giving reasons why things had to be done his way.
3. Takes the attitude that if you don't like the way I did it, you should get someone else to do it.
4. Treats the accuser as an enemy and whenever there is a chance tells other practitioners about the errors made by the accuser.
Importance of Cultivating Diligently
When criticized I got angry and was ready to argue or justify that I was being wrongfully accused when being criticized. But, after cultivating diligently for some time I was able to shed such negative reactions. Now, I am truly grateful when people point out my mistakes. This is because Teacher [Mr. Li Hongzhi, the founder of Falun Gong] is using these individuals to help me improve faster.
I recall one day a fellow practitioner told me what I did wrong in my cultivation. Actually, I no longer made these mistakes. However, I put my palms together in the heshi position and thanked him in a sincere tone for helping me. He was moved by my sincerity and treated me as a dear friend going forward. In the past, he had been critical of me and tried to tell others that I did not know how to cultivate.
I also remind practitioners about looking inward whenever they are faced with adversity. Therefore, many practitioners I know are now sincerely thankful when someone points out their mistakes while cultivating.
When the human notions that trigger anger or other negative emotions are gone, joy and gratefulness to Teacher will replace them.
This is my view of how to deal with criticism. Please point out anything that is improper.
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Category: Improving Oneself
