The Subject of Criticism

I've been pondering whether to say anything about this or not, but I feel I must just to purge it from my mind.

I recently had an article published about APM style acupuncture. The very first comment made on the article, I am guessing, was made by the Dean of Tri-State College of Acupuncture where I studied. The criticism was not constructive in the least. One would think that someone that taught and guided students through a rigorous program would offer clarification in a supportive and helpful way, perhaps opining the fact that one of his students was able to publish an article in a well known paper. The article may not have been the best, but I was excited and probably could have slowed myself down to make sure everything was completely accurate, which actually I believe it was. I received many compliments on the article from the publisher as well as a doctor that reviewed the article for the paper. What really sticks in my mind is that it must be exhausting to google one's name every morning to see who has invoked it and whether it's up to their standard. Rather than offering helpful criticism, the remarks were latent with vile bitterness, just as it was during my tenure at Tri-State. This man would shout and bring down students for inquiries that were "interruptions" according to him. Lets put the person down rather than lift them up. It's a shame and it's a reason why I don't return to my school for gatherings of fellow alumni. I wish the Dean all the best, but I will not be touting the attributes of his style of acupuncture any further. It isn't worth the time. Perhaps I shouldn't be so sensitive, but it was my first article and it meant a lot to me. The lesson, take the criticism with a grain of salt and consider who it was from.

From Metal to Water

The season is moving from the element of Metal to Water. We've seen the end of the growing season. The time of Metal is usually one of sadness and need. Being aware of these emotions helps us to work through these emotions. Meditating on the positive side of things can help us stay positive throughout the season. As we move into the time of Water, meditation is even more necessary to quiet the soul and store our energy for the next season. During this time vegetation fully recedes and takes in the moisture, storing it in order to fully bloom and maximize the growth process in the Spring. The same happens in the body when we treat it right and respect the time of year. It's important to nourish ourselves, stay warm, and protect ourselves from the elements. Lack of protection can lead to illness; colds and flu. Lets make a concerted effort to respect the quiet, store energy, and prepare for the next growing season.