Guest contribution by Addison Neal

https://www.countryliving.com/shopping/a63579016/owala-new-freesip-collection/

The popular water bottle brand Owala listened to its customers’ complaints and has decided to launch a new version of their already-existing products. After gaining a trending status, the Owala FreeSip Tumbler has been found guilty of a few flaws. Many reviews left people convinced this was the perfect water bottle, yet not everyone received what they had expected.

The biggest complaint regarding the FreeSip is the lack of a handle. Looking at it, people may disagree and say, “But there’s a handle right there.” However, that is not the case. The supposed handle is actually the bottle’s locking mechanism. I personally have made the mistake of using the locking mechanism as a handle, which has resulted in the bottle being dropped. When I have done this, a majority of the time, the lid would open, and my water would be dispersed everywhere across the floor. I was disappointed the first time this happened. I have watched it happen to others as well. My friend’s bottle even went as far as completely unscrewing itself as it hit the ground. I have found a few lessons we can apply to our lives through observing what this company has learned.

Receive Negative Opinions

Though the FreeSip had many positive reactions, it still had many one-star reviews. In life, we do not always receive the feedback we want. We still must push past negative feedback and apply it where necessary. Most people become disappointed when faced with the critics of life. Instead of dwelling on what was said, we must learn from it the best that we can.

Even if a remark has a negative connotation, in the end, it can become positive. We may think we have arrived at perfection and that we cannot improve ourselves spiritually, but we all have room for improvement. One way to improve is by listening to those around us.

Be Adaptable

Change is often seen as a bad thing. While this can be the case, it is not always that way. Most people who do not want to receive change are already comfortable where they are. They do not like the risk that is involved with change. Many leaders can disregard change in fear of losing their position.

If not for change, America never would have become a country in the first place. The colonists wanted a change and were willing to do something about it. They understood the risk they were taking and overcame it. Instead of tolerating the mediocre conditions they were given, they were willing to make a change.

Reach the Fullest Potential

Just as Owala has taken inspiration from opinions, we also must use the inspiration we receive from others to be the best we can be. With the launch of their new products, Owala has taken a step closer to being the “perfect water bottle.” While we are not striving to be the perfect water bottle, we are trying to serve God to our fullest potential.

In conclusion, we should be open to change to be more efficient as Christians. Refusing to adapt and to accept constructive criticism will not help us reach our potential. Listening to advice and being willing to do something about it is taking a step in the right direction.

We are more than a metal bottle with a convenient straw—we are God’s creation.