Evaluation

Evaluation is one of our most valuable tools. It is among the very first things a child learns to do as it asserts its rights as a human being. Without instruction, almost instinctively, a child chooses certain foods it likes and others it will spit into its mothers face. As time passes we can’t help but notice how the child comes to love certain toys or dolls while ignoring others that an adult might consider more attractive.

This application of some special criteria in determining what, or who to like or dislike appears more noticeable as the child grows older and becomes more assertive. It shows itself in choices of clothing, hair styles, school classes, friends and lovers.

Seldom is this evaluation sense noticed as a particular characteristic. Rather, we see the results of its application. Although it is seldom noticed its strength and influence is very strong, often causing serious conflicts between parent and child or between classmates. Most notable instances arise when a parent objects to the child’s choice of a particular friend.

Too often overlooked is the value of the process of evaluation in the life of each of us. As a person matures the application of value assessment takes place so many times in such a variety of circumstances that it becomes an essential part of our self and does not exhibit itself as a distinct characteristic. In spite of its elusive nature it is still one of our strongest and most valuable assets.

While we have stressed the ever-presence and great strength of this sense of evaluation, the statement would not be complete without a comment regarding it value as a guide in one’s conduct of daily life.

First, it should not be considered as a reliable ‘moral compass’. While it may be a very helpful guide in choosing friends, lovers and mates, making business decisions or in choosing sides in political matters, it cannot be reliable with respect to the ‘rightness’ of those choices. Responsibility in these and in other ethical and morality matters resides in ones individual character as developed in family life, church and individual experiences. However, it must be stated that one’s character does have a significant influence in the evaluation process which should not be overlooked.

Every individual should take time periodically to recognize the various factors in his character and experience that come into play in his process of evaluation of the problems and opportunities arising in his everyday life. This study will enable him to gain a deliberate and studied view of the person he really is and will add new vitality to his feeling of pride and self-worth.

Jerry Clements 6/27/2008