If a pilgrim monastic coming from a distant region wants to live as a guest of the monastery, let her be received for as long a time as she desires, provided she is content with the customs of the place as she finds them and does not disturb the monastery by superfluous demands, but is simply content with what she finds. If, however, she censures or points out anything reasonably and with the humility of charity, let the Abbess consider prudently whether perhaps it was for that very purpose that the Lord sent her. If afterwards she should want to bind herself to stability, her wish should not be denied her, especially since there has been opportunity during her stay as a guest to discover her character.

How do we hear criticism? It may depend on how the criticism is offered.

How do we offer criticism? Too often, we are inclined to "give it to them straight."

Benedict encourages rationality (rationabiliter) and humble love (humilitate caritatis) in offering critique. Even with great insight and acute intellect we may be wrong. Our analysis, intention, and manner should reflect the possibilty of error, as well as our hope to be helpful.

When criticism is offered - especially when careful and caring - we ought to listen as if to God.

What a gift it is when someone loves enough to take the risk of sharing their concern.