In the face of unjust criticism we can become bitter or better; upset or understanding; hostile or humble; furious or forgiving.
Unjust criticism is usually disguised compliment. It often means that you have aroused jealously and envy. Remember that no one ever kicks a dead log.
We protest against unjust criticism but we accept unarmed applause.
We may never become accustomed to untrue and unjust criticism of us but we ought not to be immobilized by it.
The maxim that men are not to be praised before their death was invented by envy and too lightly adopted by philosophers. I, on the contrary, maintain that they ought to be praised in their lifetime if they merit it; but jealousy and calumny, roused against their virtue or their talent, labour to degrade them if any one ventures to bear testimony to them. It is unjust criticism that they should fear to hazard, not sincere praise.
