Was I judgmental, condemning and overly harsh?

[evangelist6589]

I wrote this book review about this self-help/career book. I rated it 3/5 stars and tried to be neutral. However advocates from this camp have attacked me. One person said I am too negative, and another person said the following. "You're very bold to criticize a man who helped created a community of dreamers and people who are living the dream...and as a result - you sound foolish. Even when you think you are being helpful. Prov 15:2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. I hope you understand that your criticisms, which may have been in "good spirit", actually come off more offensive than helpful."


Tell me what you think, thanks..

I have read 48 days, and have read a number of 3 star reviews on Goodreads.com. I have examined many of the reviews and find what they say to be accurate. For one the book lacks a topical index, and it needs one! Second many of the 3 star reviews had the same complaint about the book being too broad to be very helpful as far as selecting a career. The book refers the reader to a website which one needs to pay a fee and then receives a PDF file of like 80 or so career choices. In the book The Christians Career Journey by Susan Whitcomb she has a FAR BETTER assessment in the book in chapter 3. In my case for example the assessment lists a few fields that would best fit my personality, dreams, and passions best. Sadly some of these careers are low paying (retail sales) however needless I have several fields to choose from for careers.

Another issue with 48 Days is that its more motivational than practical as many of the 3 star reviews mentioned. In the 2011 version of What Color is your Parachute Boyles spells out EXACTLY the five best ways to look for a job in chapter 3. He mentions the worst ways and the best ways to look for work. In one of the best ways he mentions networking. Another method he mentions is searching the yellow pages and finding companies and going from there.

48 Days seems more motivational than practical. Perhaps it seems a major premise to 48 days is positive thinking will find one a job, even if the job market is in the tank, and one lacks the skills and experience in better paying fields. If this is correct (tell me if I am wrong) then this is not accurate. Plenty of people with bright minds live poorly in third world countries and other places. Location, and opportunities are a KEY component to finding work, and not necessarily my mindset.

Just a few improvements. On the positive 48 days I believe is better written than some other books in my library and can keep my attention easier.

John

 

[freeatlast]

I wrote this book review about this self-help/career book. I rated it 3/5 stars and tried to be neutral. However advocates from this camp have attacked me. One person said I am too negative, and another person said the following. "You're very bold to criticize a man who helped created a community of dreamers and people who are living the dream...and as a result - you sound foolish. Even when you think you are being helpful. Prov 15:2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. I hope you understand that your criticisms, which may have been in "good spirit", actually come off more offensive than helpful."


Tell me what you think, thanks..

I don't think it is possible to tell. I also think it is the reason the Lord never got into things ourside of the things of God. We are to do all we do as unto the Lord. If you feel you apporached this with that in mind, God desiring you to do this, and spoke truth then you can do nothing more.

 

[DiamondLady]

I wrote this book review about this self-help/career book. I rated it 3/5 stars and tried to be neutral. However advocates from this camp have attacked me. One person said I am too negative, and another person said the following. "You're very bold to criticize a man who helped created a community of dreamers and people who are living the dream...and as a result - you sound foolish. Even when you think you are being helpful. Prov 15:2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. I hope you understand that your criticisms, which may have been in "good spirit", actually come off more offensive than helpful."


Tell me what you think, thanks..

Overly harsh? No. It was a strong review. You critiqued the book and compared it to others you'd read. If you want MY critique of your review....your grammar and sentence structure needs work. Your tone needs work. I can see where some readers might have found the review offensive, even arrogant sounding.

 

[evangelist6589]

Overly harsh? No. It was a strong review. You critiqued the book and compared it to others you'd read. If you want MY critique of your review....your grammar and sentence structure needs work. Your tone needs work. I can see where some readers might have found the review offensive, even arrogant sounding.

I did not do a grammar or spelling check, and usually do not on form posts. When I write formally then yes. I can agree with you on tone, however that is subject to review, and I am waiting for more input. Thanks..

 

[abcgrad94]

John, this isn't the first time someone has told you this. Several of us here at BB have lovingly tried to tell you how you come across, and you didn't like it. Maybe some listening is in order?

As for the review, I agree with DiamondLady.

 

[HAMel]

Listening? Try listening, did you say abcgrad94?

Now that's a novel idea.

I certainly do agree with you!

I do wish I could get my grand kids to listen..., but they don't. :BangHead:

 

[evangelist6589]

John, this isn't the first time someone has told you this. Several of us here at BB have lovingly tried to tell you how you come across, and you didn't like it. Maybe some listening is in order?

As for the review, I agree with DiamondLady.

Spelling and grammar errors I will agree with. But then again I personally do not care in a informal environment. How I come across depends on the person and their own perceptions and biases. If all they do is feed into self-help and positive viewpoints then its obvious they will interpret me as being negative.

If you can cite examples I will listen but you must provide evidence... Thank you

 

[Yeshua1]

I wrote this book review about this self-help/career book. I rated it 3/5 stars and tried to be neutral. However advocates from this camp have attacked me. One person said I am too negative, and another person said the following. "You're very bold to criticize a man who helped created a community of dreamers and people who are living the dream...and as a result - you sound foolish. Even when you think you are being helpful. Prov 15:2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. I hope you understand that your criticisms, which may have been in "good spirit", actually come off more offensive than helpful."


Tell me what you think, thanks..

MANY of the popular Chrsitian books today that deal with careers/jobs, making choices etc seem to be wriiten as though from a Biblical perspective, but tend to be using popular psy and think right, do right philosophies, NOT directly from the bible!

IF using a book outside the bible , wouldn't it make more sense to get one dealing wit how to find and apply Will of God for your life?

 

[freeatlast]

MANY of the popular Chrsitian books today that deal with careers/jobs, making choices etc seem to be wriiten as though from a Biblical perspective, but tend to be using popular psy and think right, do right philosophies, NOT directly from the bible!

IF using a book outside the bible , wouldn't it make more sense to get one dealing wit how to find and apply Will of God for your life?

Just read the bible and apply it and no other book will be needed.

 

[Mexdeaf]

I always write formally with the lone exception of text messages, which are personal in nature and less formal. As a pastor I believe it is important to always be clear with my message, regardless of the setting.

And John, many people here have tried to help you, but you are not listening. Part of it, I am sure, is your youth. But the larger part, to be blatantly honest with you, is pride. Pride is something we all wrestle with and that no one conquers.

When I read many of your posts to this board, I see myself 30 years ago. I deeply wish there had been a Baptist Board back then, with people older and wiser than I to help sharpen me. Unfortunately, there was not so I had to go to UHK (University of Hard Knocks) to get ironed out.

Please do not write off the gentle criticisms that you have received here.

 

[Yeshua1]

Just read the bible and apply it and no other book will be needed.

You do read and use study tools for the bible though, right?

 

[freeatlast]

You do read and use study tools for the bible though, right?

Yes if you mean things like something to help me understand a word or a time period or an idiom then yes, but not entire books. If you mean setting and reading someone's book that says the same thing the bible says then no, I have the bible and if they do not agree with it I don't want it.
If you think about it this unbelievable appetite to read what other people is saying was not present for the first 1800 years or so. The early church was not told to read books from this author or that one. They were told to rely on the word of God. I have asked and I ask again. Exactly what is lacking about the bible for the man of God to be complete? The real problem is not the bible and not being able to complete us. The real problem is that people don’t like its straight forward and straight lined teachings so they seek someone who will tickle their ear and tell them what they want to hear.
Here is some examples. We are told if we divorce not to remarry, but return to our spouse or remain single. That does not set well so many need someone to override that and tell them what they want to hear so as to quench the spirit so they are not under conviction.
Another is elders and deacons. No new believer ever read the passages and came away thinking a woman could be either. There are many other examples. So we have those who write books and tell us why they can. So again I hold the view if the book agrees with scripture I don’t need it as I already have the book. If it does not I don’t want it as it is a lie.

I will add this. I see no problem with books that entertain such as written by Tim LaHaye and the left behind series , as long as we understand they are just that, for entertainment and are not totally biblical.

 

[Yeshua1]

Yes if you mean things like something to help me understand a word or a time period or an idiom then yes, but not entire books. If you mean setting and reading someone's book that says the same thing the bible says then no, I have the bible and if they do not agree with it I don't want it.
If you think about it this unbelievable appetite to read what other people is saying was not present for the first 1800 years or so. The early church was not told to read books from this author or that one. They were told to rely on the word of God. I have asked and I ask again. Exactly what is lacking about the bible for the man of God to be complete? The real problem is not the bible and not being able to complete us. The real problem is that people don’t like its straight forward and straight lined teachings so they seek someone who will tickle their ear and tell them what they want to hear.
Here is some examples. We are told if we divorce not to remarry, but return to our spouse or remain single. That does not set well so many need someone to override that and tell them what they want to hear so as to quench the spirit so they are not under conviction.
Another is elders and deacons. No new believer ever read the passages and came away thinking a woman could be either. There are many other examples. So we have those who write books and tell us why they can. So again I hold the view if the book agrees with scripture I don’t need it as I already have the book. If it does not I don’t want it as it is a lie.

I will add this. I see no problem with books that entertain such as written by Tim LaHaye and the left behind series , as long as we understand they are just that, for entertainment and are not totally biblical.

I was referring to mainly books such as concordance/dictionary/commentaries etc, as they are good to help study the Bible!

 

[freeatlast]

I was referring to mainly books such as concordance/dictionary/commentaries etc, as they are good to help study the Bible!

The first two yes, but commentaries no not as a rule. I find them too biased to one's particular bent. Read 5 different commentaries and get 5 different views.

 

[evangelist6589]

MANY of the popular Chrsitian books today that deal with careers/jobs, making choices etc seem to be wriiten as though from a Biblical perspective, but tend to be using popular psy and think right, do right philosophies, NOT directly from the bible!

IF using a book outside the bible , wouldn't it make more sense to get one dealing wit how to find and apply Will of God for your life?

You are exactly correct. What else can I expect when trying to REASON with those of that ilk? I have the wrong expectations. Was reading my Bible today and came across the Church of Laodicia. That was a lukewarm church that loved wealth.

 

[evangelist6589]

Just read the bible and apply it and no other book will be needed.

Well for the particulars on resumes, cover letters, and such I need a Career book. However for the philosophy and life advice I will use the Bible, or a Bible saturated book.

 

[evangelist6589]

I always write formally with the lone exception of text messages, which are personal in nature and less formal. As a pastor I believe it is important to always be clear with my message, regardless of the setting.

And John, many people here have tried to help you, but you are not listening. Part of it, I am sure, is your youth. But the larger part, to be blatantly honest with you, is pride. Pride is something we all wrestle with and that no one conquers.

When I read many of your posts to this board, I see myself 30 years ago. I deeply wish there had been a Baptist Board back then, with people older and wiser than I to help sharpen me. Unfortunately, there was not so I had to go to UHK (University of Hard Knocks) to get ironed out.

Please do not write off the gentle criticisms that you have received here.

I am open but what is said must be substantiated with evidence. In other words I want examples. Some posters know what I am talking about and others do not. I think there is a difference between pride and conviction and some mix them up. On that board I was talking about many there think the world of Joel Osteen. I have tried to be constructive and point out that he teaches a self-help gospel. Yes he is a very gifted communicator, but he does not preach the entire gospel. Those there have called me on that one and have said I am prideful, think I am better than them, and made false accusations and put many words into my mouth. But there is a difference between Pride and conviction!

This is why I ask for particulars. One can conclude I am prideful and egocentric because I say that Joel Osteen is a false teacher.

 

[evangelist6589]

The first two yes, but commentaries no not as a rule. I find them too biased to one's particular bent. Read 5 different commentaries and get 5 different views.

Especially when reading Reformed commentaries on prophecy.

 

[DiamondLady]

John, because you asked for particulars, I'm going to give it to you. You'll see my critique, in your review, in red. I hope it helps you.


I have read 48 daysTitles of books should be deliniated in some way....either all capital letters, in quotations, even italicized. It gives importance to the author's effort, even if you don't like the book it's important to give credence to the fact that they author published., and have read a number <it is unnecessary to add this comment, it is as if you are saying you only read the reviews that support your opinion. I do hope you read the others as a comparison>of 3 star reviews on Goodreads.com. I have examined really? examined? You are an expert? That's what this word implies. many of the reviews and find what they say to be accurate.This is again a statement that is off-putting. You're setting your own opinion as the benchmark, instead of simply sharing your own opinion> For one the book lacks a topical index, and it needs one!A better way of saying this...a friendlier way, if you will...48 Days lacks a topical index. My personal preference is books have one. ALWAYS use the title of the book rather than "the book" or "this book". Second many of the 3 star reviews had the same complaint about the book being too broad to be very helpful as far as selecting a career.<ONLY refer to your OWN opinion in a review. "I prefer books" or "48 Days was too broad to help..." The book refers the reader to a website which one needs to pay a fee and then receives a PDF file ofOmit superfluous words whenever possible. Words such as like, just, etc. Here you could have ended the comment with "pay a fee and receives, in exchange, a PDF file." like 80 or so career choices. In the book The Christians Career Journey by Susan Whitcomb she has a FAR BETTER assessment in the book in chapter 3. In my case for example the assessment lists a few fields that would best fit my personality, dreams, and passions best. Sadly some of these careers are low paying (retail sales)you turn your nose up at retail sales positions...you cut half the working class off at the knees! That's arrogance. however needless I have several fields to choose from for careers. Here you damn and praise in the same sentence. Why use an example of something that isn't 100% positive? If the assessment is what you're praising then that's all you should include.

Another issue with 48 Days is that its more motivational than practicalEnd the thought here. as many of the 3 star reviews mentioned. In the 2011 version of What Color is your Parachute Boyles spells out EXACTLY the five best ways to look for a jobEnd the thought here in chapter 3. He mentions the worst ways and the best ways to look for work. The particulars aren't necessary...they're your opinions on what are the best ways to look for work. In one of the best ways he mentions networking. Another method he mentions is searching the yellow pages and finding companies and going from there.

48 Days seems more motivational than practical. This sentence makes NO sense....almost as if you wrote one thing, backed up and deleted something. It's why proofreading is so important You need to elimiate everything from practical to seemsPerhaps it seems <A>a major premise to 48 days is positive thinking will find one a job, even if the job market is in the tankPeriod, eliminate the rest...perhaps YOU lack the skills and experience, but the way you've stated this is very arrogant...that's the tone I spoke of , and one lacks the skills and experience in better paying fields. If this is correct (tell me if I am wrong) then this is not accurate. Plenty of people with bright minds live poorly in third world countries and other places. Location, and opportunities are a KEY component to finding work, and not necessarily my mindset. This entire last portion could have been eliminated....KEEP REVIEWS PERSONAL VIEWS AND OPINIONS OF THE WORK....never, personal opinions of anything else. I read the review looking for exactly what you asked. People on the board where you posted this read the opinion and many were insulted by your opinion of THEM, which is what you've given here.

Just a few improvements. On the positive 48 days I believe is better written than some other books in my library and can keep my attention easier.

 

[freeatlast]

John, because you asked for particulars, I'm going to give it to you. You'll see my critique, in your review, in red. I hope it helps you.


I have read 48 daysTitles of books should be deliniated in some way....either all capital letters, in quotations, even italicized. It gives importance to the author's effort, even if you don't like the book it's important to give credence to the fact that they author published., and have read a number <it is unnecessary to add this comment, it is as if you are saying you only read the reviews that support your opinion. I do hope you read the others as a comparison>of 3 star reviews on Goodreads.com. I have examined really? examined? You are an expert? That's what this word implies. many of the reviews and find what they say to be accurate.This is again a statement that is off-putting. You're setting your own opinion as the benchmark, instead of simply sharing your own opinion> For one the book lacks a topical index, and it needs one!A better way of saying this...a friendlier way, if you will...48 Days lacks a topical index. My personal preference is books have one. ALWAYS use the title of the book rather than "the book" or "this book". Second many of the 3 star reviews had the same complaint about the book being too broad to be very helpful as far as selecting a career.<ONLY refer to your OWN opinion in a review. "I prefer books" or "48 Days was too broad to help..." The book refers the reader to a website which one needs to pay a fee and then receives a PDF file ofOmit superfluous words whenever possible. Words such as like, just, etc. Here you could have ended the comment with "pay a fee and receives, in exchange, a PDF file." like 80 or so career choices. In the book The Christians Career Journey by Susan Whitcomb she has a FAR BETTER assessment in the book in chapter 3. In my case for example the assessment lists a few fields that would best fit my personality, dreams, and passions best. Sadly some of these careers are low paying (retail sales)you turn your nose up at retail sales positions...you cut half the working class off at the knees! That's arrogance. however needless I have several fields to choose from for careers. Here you damn and praise in the same sentence. Why use an example of something that isn't 100% positive? If the assessment is what you're praising then that's all you should include.

Another issue with 48 Days is that its more motivational than practicalEnd the thought here. as many of the 3 star reviews mentioned. In the 2011 version of What Color is your Parachute Boyles spells out EXACTLY the five best ways to look for a jobEnd the thought here in chapter 3. He mentions the worst ways and the best ways to look for work. The particulars aren't necessary...they're your opinions on what are the best ways to look for work. In one of the best ways he mentions networking. Another method he mentions is searching the yellow pages and finding companies and going from there.

48 Days seems more motivational than practical. This sentence makes NO sense....almost as if you wrote one thing, backed up and deleted something. It's why proofreading is so important You need to elimiate everything from practical to seemsPerhaps it seems <A>a major premise to 48 days is positive thinking will find one a job, even if the job market is in the tankPeriod, eliminate the rest...perhaps YOU lack the skills and experience, but the way you've stated this is very arrogant...that's the tone I spoke of , and one lacks the skills and experience in better paying fields. If this is correct (tell me if I am wrong) then this is not accurate. Plenty of people with bright minds live poorly in third world countries and other places. Location, and opportunities are a KEY component to finding work, and not necessarily my mindset. This entire last portion could have been eliminated....KEEP REVIEWS PERSONAL VIEWS AND OPINIONS OF THE WORK....never, personal opinions of anything else. I read the review looking for exactly what you asked. People on the board where you posted this read the opinion and many were insulted by your opinion of THEM, which is what you've given here.

Just a few improvements. On the positive 48 days I believe is better written than some other books in my library and can keep my attention easier.

If it agrees with the bible we don't need it and if it does not we should not want it.