Parshas Vayechi

"Yesterday, Mr. Smith told me I knew the material, but I really flubbed
the contest today."
"Yesterday, I was a little suprised that Rabbi Cohen told me that I
didn't know certain parts of the material, but now I'm happy that he did.,
because as a result I studied more and came in first place."

Included in Yaacov's blessings to his children was "Reuven, you were
unstable like water... Shimon and Levi, instruments of violence are their
wares..." (Biraishis 49:4-5) Are these blessings???? Rav Michel Barenboim
zt"l, the mashgiach of Rav Moshe Feinstein's Yeshiva, MTJ, explains that
knowing exactly one's weak points as well as strong points, is an important
part of success.

Constructive criticism (given well) can be more beneficial than
undeserved praise.

Have a great Shabbos !!

Rabbi Chaim Flom

Dear Rabbi Flom,
Sometimes constructive criticism can hurt - but it's important to know from whom it is given and that they are sincere in trying to help.
Lynn

Dear Lynn,
I agree 100% with you. I wrote "given well" and "CAN BE more beneficial" because timing, tone,etc is very important if it will work at all. (A friend of mine refers to it as the "who, what, where, when , why and how" of giving mussar.)
Take care.
Rabbi Flom