121 W. Glenoaks Blvd. * Glendale, CA 91202 * 818-242-2579 * FAX 818-507-4976

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Rev. Will Bowen of the Association of Unity Churches wants everybody to stop complaining. Complaining, he says, only leads to more things to complain about. And if the worldπs population could collectively stop harping, weπd be a better place. Bowen has challenged his Missouri congregation to wear purple bracelets to remind themselves to stop complaining, criticizing, or gossiping. He also challenged them to stop complaining for 21 days to break habits. When congregants failed to refrain from complaining, they were to switch the bracelets to the other wrist and start over. What do you think? Would the world be a better place if we stopped complaining, and could we have more peace of mind? Or does complaining have a purpose?

 

 

Most of us complain at one time or another. On certain occasions ≥constructive criticism≤ can actually be helpful. Chronic complaining, criticism, and gossip though can be poisonous to family life, friendships, and the workplace. Some individuals have the unique ability to see the gray lining in every silver cloud as if energized by the negative or imagined negative elements of life. At the core, I believe, there is often an absence of gratitude in life. When one cannot appreciate the blessings of life and chooses to see only the dark side of situations and individuals, that person dooms themselves to a joyless and empty life. Happiness is a choice and the only person responsible for my happiness is me. I have known individuals who have faced terminal illness, suffered financial setbacks, and have had to deal with unexpected and difficult turns in life only to triumph because of positive and grateful attitudes.

 

I think the bracelet thing has been over done and puts too much emphasis on the self. Perhaps a better way to overcome chronic negativity is to commit myself to putting five dollars in a jar or envelope every time I complain and then donate it to a womanπs shelter, home for unwed mothers, or local food bank. In doing so, I hold myself accountable for bad behavior and am able to assist someone who can truly benefit.

 

Rev. Paul J. Hruby

Pastor

Church of the Incarnation

Glendale