In today's world, social media has become a powerful tool for doing service and making a positive impact. However, when we engage in social media service, we are likely to encounter both appreciation and criticism. It is important to learn how to handle both of these reactions in a healthy and constructive way.
Firstly, it is important to realize that appreciation is not a certificate for us, but a reflection of the person who is expressing it. We should not let praise inflate our ego or make us complacent. Instead, we should continue to do our service with sincerity and dedication, regardless of whether we receive recognition or not.
On the other hand, when someone criticizes us, it can be easy to feel discouraged or demotivated. However, it is important to remember that criticism is often a reflection of the other person's inner state of mind, rather than a reflection of our own worth or value. We should strive to understand the root cause of the criticism and respond with compassion and understanding.
One way to respond to criticism is to practice meditation for the person who is criticizing us. This can help us to cultivate a sense of inner peace and compassion, while also sending positive energy to the other person. This can create a positive cycle of healing and growth, rather than a negative cycle of hurt and defensiveness.
Ultimately, as the Bhagavad Gita teaches us, we should strive to do our duty without expecting any returns. By focusing on the process of service itself, rather than the outcome, we can cultivate a sense of detachment and equanimity that allows us to handle both appreciation and criticism with grace and humility.
In conclusion, when we engage in social media service, it is important to remain grounded and focused on the underlying purpose of our work. By cultivating a sense of detachment, compassion, and resilience, we can navigate the ups and downs of social media service with grace and ease, and continue to make a positive impact in the world.