How to Avoid Criticism

April 24, 2023 ~ Big Sky Writer ~ Leave a comment

Words Worth Thinking About

This quote is often attributed to the Greek philosopher, Aristotle, but it comes from Elbert Hubbard (1856-1915) an American writer, publisher, and philosopher.

Hubbard was a prolific writer, publishing numerous essays, articles, and books on a wide range of topics, including philosophy, literature, and business. He was known for his witty and often controversial opinions, and his writing style was characterized by a blend of humor, satire, and moral lessons.

Hubbard died in 1915 when the Lusitania was torpedoed by a German submarine. Despite his controversial views, he was widely admired for his independent spirit, creative vision, and dedication to craftsmanship.

“To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing.”

Quote Investigator on this quote – To Avoid Criticism, Say Nothing, Do Nothing, Be Nothing – Quote Investigator®

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Learning to Cry

April 9, 2023 ~ Big Sky Writer ~ Leave a comment

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My brother arrived in this world one year, eight months, and twenty days before I came along.

When it was my turn to join the family, it meant that for the rest of my life I would be … a little brother.

Now that may not mean much to you but it was an important part of my upbringing.

Big brothers were obviously bigger but they were also stronger, quicker, smarter … well, the list could go on.

The fact is, those of us who were little brothers had to learn certain survival skills.

Early on I learned that one of the most powerful skills I had was the ability to cry on demand.

If my brother and I were playing in the house and knocked something over, when an adult came into the room to see what happened, all I had to do was cry and point at my brother.

It didn’t matter if I was the one who knocked the item over.

If I cried and pointed, he got into trouble … and I didn’t.

Trust me, I got very good at crying.

Criticism and Pain

April 7, 2023April 3, 2023 ~ Big Sky Writer ~ Leave a comment

Words Worth Thinking About

Winston Churchill was a British politician, statesman, and writer who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during World War II. Born in 1874 in Oxfordshire, England, Churchill had a long and distinguished career in politics, serving as both a member of parliament and as a cabinet minister before becoming Prime Minister in 1940.

He is widely regarded as one of the greatest wartime leaders of the 20th century and is known for his stirring speeches, including the famous “We shall fight on the beaches” speech. Churchill died in 1965, but his legacy as a statesman and leader continues to inspire people around the world.

“Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.”

Winston Churchill
From a speech in 1940.

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Good Citizenship

March 24, 2023March 21, 2023 ~ Big Sky Writer ~ Leave a comment

Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) was the 26th President of the United States, serving from 1901 to 1909. He was a larger-than-life figure known for his energetic and adventurous spirit, as well as his progressive policies and conservation efforts.

Before becoming President, Roosevelt was a prolific author and historian, as well as a rancher, explorer, and soldier. He served as Assistant Secretary of the Navy under President William McKinley, and became President in 1901 after McKinley’s assassination.

As President, Roosevelt championed progressive reforms such as the Pure Food and Drug Act, the Meat Inspection Act, and the establishment of the National Parks System. He also won the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to mediate the Russo-Japanese War.

After leaving office, Roosevelt continued to be an active and influential figure, founding the Progressive Party and running for President again in 1912. He also led an expedition to explore the Amazon rainforest and wrote several books on his experiences.

In this quote, Roosevelt shares what is the goal of a good citizen.

*After all, the very highest and most fundamental work of good citizenship is to leave the next generation in right shape.”

Theodore Roosevelt
Letter from Theodore Roosevelt to Charles Frisch, 24 JUL 1911.

Think about that today.

Are we leaving the next generation in right shape?