A form of praise
June 20, 2012 (Wednesday)
“Applause is primarily the expression of approval by the act of clapping, or striking the palms of the hands together, in order to create noise. Audiences are usually expected to applaud after a performance, such as a musical concert, speech, play, or sporting event. As a form of mass nonverbal communication, it is a simple indicator of the average relative opinion of the entire group; the louder and longer the noise, the stronger the sign of approval.” –Wikipedia
When movies were first invented, and movie houses sprang up across the country, applause was usually heard at the conclusion of the show. As time went on, audiences became more sophisticated and, in light of the fact that no live performances were taking place, applause in movie theaters finally ceased. In recent years, however, smatterings of applause for movies can be heard in certain situations.
While applause ceased or decreased in the movies, it has increased in churches. Once upon a time, applause was unheard of in a worship service. But at some point in time it has become very popular. Usually it is offered by an audience in appreciation for a musical performance, but occasionally it briefly interrupts a sermon to show approval. Applause has gradually displaced a hearty “Amen” and the like in some congregations.
Applause expresses approval. Everyone — and I do mean everyone — enjoys being praised. Some try to hide that facet of their personality, but it is still there. The discipline of Psychology has been teaching us for many years that there is power in praise. An ounce of praise is worth a pound of punishment. Animal trainers have known that for many years; humans are just beginning to catch on.
“How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie is a book that’s been around for many years, and it includes some basic principles in dealing with people that we would all do well to learn and practice. Corporations used to require the study of these ideas and provided wallet cards with these outlines for their management teams. You can read them by clicking here.
It really boils down to the Golden Rule, taught to us by Jesus and others, “Treat others like you would like to be treated.”