Criticism is an indirect form of self-boasting.

Why do we let some things bother us so much? I think I have a decent grasp of my priorities. My work involves a lot of time outside of the traditional work day, but I really try to include my family in the after-hours stuff - like watching game after game after game of the sport du jour (but let's face it, there is nothing painful about watching our varsity boys play ball!) I try to attend each and every activity, skipping one here or there when there isn't a way to resolve a conflict with my personal/family schedule. So why do I let the little comments get to me?

What I hear: "You missed the ___(fill in the blank with the "disaster" or "near miss" that happened after I left...that I couldn't have helped with anyway, but nonetheless...)___ last night after you left!" My read: "Why did you leave so early, you slacker?" My reality: "Holy crap, I need to get these kids home to bed! It's 9:45 and they have school tomorrow!" And finally, my conversation with my co-worker who stayed longer than I did: "Last night? Oh, yea...      (fill in the blank with the small issue that was resolved with a little legwork from the two who stayed)   ? It wasn't a big deal - we handled it."

Isn't it weird that comments from one person feel like criticism while you don't read that same criticism into another's comments? I found a quotation that says, “Criticism is an indirect form of self-boasting” (Emmet Fox). I wonder if it's true in this case? Bottom line, I need to do what I know is right by my family and me while continuing to work hard professionally...and for heaven's sake! STOP READING INTO WHAT PEOPLE SAY!