The other day, I got a message from a reader asking why I allow those who constantly criticize me and my columns to be Facebook friends. The answer is simple: I am glad they are reading my columns. I’m not writing these columns just for those who agree with me.
So far this year, I’ve had 868,000 views of these outdoor columns posted on the BDN website. That pleases me very much, and it doesn’t matter to me whether you always agree with me or not. I am very grateful to you for reading my columns.
I learned a long time ago that responding to the comments and criticism of some readers is a mistake. It only encourages them, and they always insist on getting in the last word.
So my advice to you, if you don’t want to get caught up in an ugly exchange, is to not respond to their comments and criticism – either on Facebook or at the end of a column posted here. Ignore them. Trust me, that will bother them a lot more than if you try to debate them.
Last year a new BDN blogger received her first negative comment and was very distressed, asking how she should respond. My advice was: don’t respond. Period. And don’t let it bother you.
If you are a regular reader of my outdoor news, you know there is a small group of people that are compelled to criticize almost everything I write. Doesn’t bother me a bit. Shouldn’t bother you either.
I wouldn’t have lasted all this time in politics if I didn’t have a thick skin. And I really appreciate the positive feedback I get from readers of this column. And I don’t let the critics bother me.
Of course, if you enjoy debating and debunking these people, then go ahead. Have fun!