(Minghui.org) In recent years, I noticed that the phenomenon of flattering others for selfish purposes began to rise among practitioners. Having had their ears full of sweet words, some practitioners aren't able to accept criticism of any kind.

We are Falun Dafa cultivators. If we cannot accept anyone who points out our shortcomings or look within to rectify ourselves, is this cultivation?

In my understanding, flattering and not accepting criticism go hand in hand. When one evaluates how well they’ve cultivated based on how many things they did or how important their project is, instead of comparing themselves to the principles of Dafa, one would easily fall to flattery. And after they grow full of themselves, it would be difficult for them to accept any criticism.

If the culture of flattery becomes too prominent, it may cause those practitioners who do provide constructive criticism to not speak up anymore. If that’s the case, it may allow the situation to become even worse because of the lack of feedback.

I noticed that some practitioners whose children are Shen Yun performers or who work closely with Master Li (Dafa’s founder) on certain projects tend to receive flattery, either from newer practitioners who treat them as important officials or those who have other motives.

All of these are reflections of our attachments exposed in cultivation. If we can take it as an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the Fa and to improve ourselves, we can turn the chaotic situation into a good thing. Our discernment is the key.

No matter what we do, we should always measure things against the Fa principles. It is still alright to encourage others who appear to be working on their cultivation well. But we shouldn’t flatter others for selfish purposes.

Editor's note: This article only represents the author’s understanding in their current cultivation state meant for sharing among practitioners so that we can “Compare in studying, compare in cultivating.” (“Solid Cultivation,” Hong Yin)