What would I tell such a newbie? I assume that's a rhetorical question, since you probably already know the answer . It is impossible for me to support that which I don't believe and have faith in. So my advice might easily be taken as criticism....no doubt about it.

I think the difference between "criticism" and "support" lies in the person asking for the advice.... and whether or not what he is told is what he WANTS to hear or what he is READY to hear. Granted, there are ways of giving advice that are gentle and some ways are more direct. I respond better to the direct approach. Some respond better to the gentle approach. Thankfully we have a wide variety of members and mentors that fit each description.