A Complaint Free World
With every stage of creation, God reviewed his handiwork and claimed it to be “good.” (Genesis 1:4, 1:10, 1:12, 1:18, 1:21, 1:25). In fact, in Genesis 1:25, God reviews all of creation and declares it to be “very good.” Therefore, when we complain about our lives or anything in God’s world, we are denying the truth that God’s creation is inherently good.
Churches and other religious organizations are notorious hotbeds of complaining. Because people feel that they have a strong emotional stake in the church, they tend to be strident in their opinions. And, because churches, synagogues and other religious organizations are considered to be open and welcoming, people may feel they have a right to complain without condemnation.
The negativity created by rampant complaining diminishes the great spiritual work done by churches, temples and other places of worship. It diminishes the leader’s ability to guide the congregants in a unified direction and it drains the organization of energy. Therefore, Heights Presbyterian is participating with others across the world in a simple exercise.
How do I use the purple bracelet to become a Complaint Free person?
Scientists believe it takes 21 days to form a new habit and complaining is habitual for most of us. As Twain said, we must coax our old behavior down the stairs. The purple bracelet is a powerful tool to remind you of how well you are creating your life with positive intention. Here are the suggested rules:
1. Begin to wear the bracelet, on either wrist
2. When you catch yourself complaining, gossiping or criticizing (it’s ok, everyone does) move the bracelet to the other arm and begin again. (the average person complains 15 to 30 times a day)3. If you hear someone else who is wearing a bracelet complain, you may point out their need to switch the bracelet to the other arm; BUT if you’re going to do this, you must move your bracelet first!
4. Stay with it. It may take many months but when you reach 21 days you will find that your entire life is happier, more loving and more enjoyable. (It takes most people 4 to 10 months for this behavior to become normal practice in one’s life.
How Do I Know If I’m Complaining?
To “Complain” is defined as “to express pain, grief, or discontent.” Surely, it makes sense to express pain, grief or discontent occasionally but most people do so constantly. In so doing, they are talking and thinking about what they do not want in their life and, thereby, attracting more pain, grief and discontent. Instead, think about and talk about what you are grateful for. Talk about what you DO want and not what you don’t want.
If I Think a Complaint but don’t speak it do I have to move my bracelet?
No, only if you speak a complaint aloud should you move your bracelet to the other arm. But you will find that the more you stop articulating your complaints the less complaining thought you will have. Through this process you will reformat your mental hard drive and become a happier person.
How Can We Affect Positive Change Without Complaining?
Complaining spreads negative energy and negative energy cannot create a positive outcome. Martin Luther King Jr. didn’t stand before thousands in Washington, DC and shout, “Isn’t it awful how we’re being treated?” No. He shared his dream of a day when all children of all races would play and live together in peace and harmony. His vision galvanized our country and created a positive change. For you to affect change, paint a bright vivid picture of the problem already solved and share this with as many people as you can.
How Can I Get Someone Else to Stop Complaining?
Follow the words of Ben Franklin, “The best sermon is a good example.” As you begin to transform your life by not complaining, you will be an example of positive living and this will inspire all around you. Moreover, because you’re not participating in the griping, others will be far less likely to gripe at you.
Isn’t Blowing Off Steam by Complaining Healthy?
Actually, studies have shown that complaining about one’s health actually tends to make a person’s health worse.
