Pearl Harbor… 76 years and counting. Yet it’s as fresh as yesterday in the minds of the greatest generation which dwindles every day. This week we lost one of the best – Dr. Gordon Hazard – what a loss it was to all those who knew and loved him and listened with rapt attention to his stories and observations about his 94 years on the planet – especially the war.
Gordon (pictured above with Dr. Braddock (left) his long-time running mate) was not one to complain and criticize. In his honor and In reverent memory of Pearl Harbor and the men lost that day, I’ve decided to declare this day “Criticism Free Day.” Won’t you join me? I betcha your day will be infinitely better because of it. If so, we can try it again tomorrow and the day after that.
Here’s a how the moratorium on criticism came about. I was talking to my “bitch buddy”(BB) last night and we complained and commiserated about the lousy condition of our society and a few individuals that get on our last nerve. That went on for a solid hour. It was kind of like throwing up – you feel instantly better afterwards but it’s hard to get the taste out of your mouth.
If you don’t have a B.B., get one! But limit all your judgements and complaints to that one person, else you will be pegged a crotchety ole curmudgeon and age yourself a little more each time you launch a tirade.
Criticism serves to make one harsh, vindictive, and cruel, and leaves one with the soothing and flattering idea that you are somehow superior to others. (Someone great said that but I can’t remember who – maybe Oswald Chambers.)
I’m often guilty as charged and I remembered that Jesus says “Don’t”. He urged folks to cultivate a temperament that is never critical.
I’m told this will not happen quickly but must be developed over a span of time. Today is a good day to start. When I feel the tendency to judge I will simple pop the rubber band on my wrist and shout “ouch” instead.
Wonderful memories. Thank you, Emily.
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