Other's Opinions

"The whole world could praise Sung Jung-Tzu and it wouldn't make him exert himself.  The whole world could condemn Sung Jung-Tzu and it wouldn't make him mope."  Chuang Tzu

Very few of us can say the same.  Some of the stress I have had in my life I have allowed in because of considering the opinions of others -- especially criticisms.  I can hear accolades and keep them in perspective, but criticisms have been a different manner.  We can benefit if we learn to be our own counsel, not at the whim of opinions of others.  That does not mean we do not compromise with loved ones who see things differently from us, but we do not change the essence of who we are.  For anyone.