THROWING FLOWERS AND STONES
Nuggets of praise and critique
Can affect us only if we absorb them
Do we let them seep into our spirit
Guiding our choices and defining our actions
Opinions of others come freely
Whether we ask for them or not
How we process them
Can move us forward, or keep us stuck
Acknowledge the compliments
And the criticism as opportunities for growth
Look at them objectively
And keep that which moves you forward
Craving acceptance can push you
In a direction you weren’t anticipating
While hearing perceived disapproval
Keeps you stuck in place, or
Retracing your footprints
Move forward, not back
With your head held high
As you walk along the path
Acknowledge those who throw flowers
And the ones who choose stones
But keep looking ahead, not behind
Kelly Deeny 