We should thank God for the break from our own studies and for time to spend with people whom we probably won't be able to see in a few years. When our aunts ask us to watch our cousins during the weekend, we shouldn't groan and think of all that we are sacrificing - adult conversation, sleep and food from places other than McDonald's. We should see the blessing in the simplicity of the life of children and thank God for the opportunity to share it for awhile. Maybe the greatest hidden blessing of all is humility. When we make mistakes, fall in some way or speak too quickly, someone is generally there to not only witness it but to bring it our attention.
Criticism is difficult to endure.
Even when it is not meant to be personal, it often feels that way. The first reaction is often to lash out or defend. Maybe we will never agree with the person who brings forth the challenging opinion, but it is always good to be reminded of other views. We become in danger of holding our own opinions too high when we don't stop to acknowledge other views. If nothing else, they may only reinforce our stance.