Statler and Waldorf Syndrome

Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. James 5:9 NIV.

I love the Muppets. My friend and I watched the old shows recently. My two favorite characters are Statler and Waldorf. I guess I enjoy grumpy older men who have no filter. It was interesting to find out that there is something called Statler and Waldorf Syndrome. It is defined as a learned pattern of behavior that openly criticizes the best efforts of others while offering little practical help or personal encouragement.

What a revelation! I see people with this issue regularly. People tend to have opinions on what someone is doing while offering no solution themselves. I saw it in my workplace and in the church! They complain about the job someone is doing. Then, they offered to step into that position, only to leave it months later because they did not realize how difficult it was.

Statler and Waldorf sat high above everyone else in the theater. Then, they looked down at the entertainers while criticizing all they did. We can get into that high place and look down on people, too. Then, they grumbled about the job they were trying to do. The Muppets were about making people happy. In contrast, these two grumpy older men criticized their efforts. We can get stuck in that same syndrome.

Life would be much better if we overcame critical thinking so we don’t start complaining when someone attempts to bring joy. The Muppets made it funny, but in life, it can become a serious bummer.

Keep a hand on our mouth, Lord. Lead us away from critical thinking and complaining. Take us into a more positive way of living. In Jesus’ name, amen.