Reward: Goal Or Journey?

In this first post-publication period of my life, I'm now faced with what I've dreaded the most: open, honest criticism of my opus.  After cutting my project loose into the world, I have to watch it as it attempts to fly, like a maimed seagull among a flock of birds that range from pigeons to mighty eagles.  And I can't call it back to the safety of my arms.

It's hard to watch, and every negative comment (however well-intentioned) has my cheeks burning with shame. But they also allow me to appreciate even more all the positive reviews I've received thus far--truly!  I'm very grateful that my story has pleased some of you :)

Now, I must I garner the courage to learn from my mistakes and do my best so that the next product's better!

And on that note, I am reminded of John Ruskin's words:

"The highest reward for a person's toil is not what they get for it, but what they become by it."