Evolution of love

Right Attitude Toward Criticism

Prophet Mohammed had a disciple called Ali. Ali was often criticized by other disciples but Ali patiently bore it.

One day the others criticized Ali in the presence of the Master; for a long time Ali was patient and tolerant but

finally Ali stood up to defend himself. At once Prophet Mohammed stood up and went away.

Ali followed the master and asked him, “Master why did you go away when the others started criticizing me,

and why did you not defend me?” The Master said, “When you were silent I saw 10 angels standing behind

you and protecting you; but when you started defending yourself the angels disappeared and so did I.”

The angels need not be real flesh and blood angels but virtues such as joy, patience, tolerance, forgiveness etc.

And when you retaliate you show negative qualities such as revenge, hatred etc. It is not that only those who can

defend themselves are strong. These are old virtues. Does the criticism of others give me a license to criticize back,

especially if I want to find God? Don’t concern yourself with the flaws of others. Change others by changing yourself

and by your example others will want to change...

Give advice only if people ask for your advice. And give that advice out of love for them...Otherwise we have no license to criticize others.