I’m glad you thought of this post as a good reminder. It always amazes me that people out there continue to rain on others’ parades. I’m all for constructive criticism and healthy debate, but when folks go for the throat it leaves such an unsavory taste in my mouth.

But, we’re all not the same, and lately I’ve been trying to come from a place of both, “staying in the pause,” and trying to understand that there are likely things in the person’s life that are hard to deal with or making that person angry.

Like you said, not everyone will like or appreciate us, so taking things less personally can only benefit all parties. Great observation! Enjoy your day today, Tim!

Thanks for sharing this post. I can understand how you felt…like you, one of my personal mantras is “if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” I haven’t received too many negative comments on my blog yet (mostly because I have low readership volume), but I would be a little miffed about it if I did.

Luckily, you had the gentleman remind you about those 10%. Your post is a reminder to me, that whether it be a blog, a work environment, or whatever, not everyone is going to like or appreciate us. I am learning that I should not take it personally if this situation comes up. Thanks again for a great post!
.-= Tim´s last blog ..Thoughts on Labor Day Weekend =-.

Your comment comes from an enlightened perspective. Wow, that’s deep!

And from my molecular biologist perspective, you’re right on!
I hadn’t thought of it that way until now; we’re only <0.01% different at the core of our genetic code. What was I thinking?????

OK, I definitely have a different perspective now, Chris. That, in addition to all the insightful comments left here, makes a lot of sense! I’m glad you didn’t let that, “hater,” get to you, Chris. Because that would have been a travesty.

You are obviously a very smart, unique man.
Thanks a bunch for stopping by today!

I’ve seen you often around the block, and I’m so happy to see you here. You are an amazing force in this world! Welcome to my coffee table.

I know what you mean about the difference between running and cycling. Those muscle groups are completely different! But that’s the beauty of it, cycling made me a much stronger runner. You should try it again soon. Good for you!

Awww…you’re too kind. I think it’s more like, Jane B Tired! ha
I love it: “Knowing it’s not about you is wisdom.” That’s a keeper!

Have a great day, Tess. I’ll be seeing you around and thanks for stopping by!

I think taking things personally is human nature.
Knowing it’s not about you is wisdom.
Nice post Jane B Wise!

Wonderful to see you back in the blog-o-sphere! Your presence adds much light and insight to the world.

Thanks for telling me about your recent experience. I would’ve been crushed, too! Ugh, that makes my heart just break to hear someone as caring and nurturing as you being heckled.

But, as you so delightfully demonstrate, kindness is the best option. The way you reacted, Lisis, is just beautiful. It brought a smile to my face. Thanks for confirming my beliefs with a real-life story. That was special.

Be well, my friend, and keep writing the good write!

I had an incident recently on Stumble Upon, where I got several great reviews about my Road To Freedom post. But ONE guy said something to the effect of, “You people are so stupid for falling for this scam… the request for donations says it all… this is just another ploy to get your money,” or some such.

I was crushed because that is so NOT what my blog or our decision to leave the rat race is about. I wanted to say something really mean to him for saying something mean about me. But instead, I emailed him and thanked him for his honest opinion.

I told him I had put the note about donations in there for friends and supporters who were asking how they could help, but that I’d taken it out since I saw his review because it alerted me to how it could be mis-perceived as a money-making scheme. Then I apologized for giving him that impression.

In other words, I opted for kindness. I try to always take that route when I can. It may not make the situation any better, but at least I can feel good about myself because I didn’t sink to the heckler’s level.

Awesome post, Lo!

.-= Lisis´s last blog ..Inspiration from Ralph Waldo Emerson: A New Day =-.

Knowing you from your blog (which is full of awesomeness, I must say), I bet you have some funny stories about how you’ve dealt with that 10%; I’d like to hear some of those someday!

I hear what you’re saying about showing a little kindness. It is kind of like a see-saw — instead of jumping on their side of negativity in rebuttal, why not pop on the opposite, show them kindness, and tip them towards positivity?

Thanks for stopping by, groovy girl! Cheers!