Little Rhino -
I am not trying to get into a conflict here. Like I said in my post, I agree with raising the question, I think it is a good question to bring up. You seem to be a little defensive at someone questioning you, or not agreeing with everything you say. But yet, as you say,

So you must realize that the things you've written may come off as offensive to some, right?

I don't intend to argue with you about it! You are entitled to your opinion. I just want to clarify some of the things I said because you seem to have taken them in a way I didn't intend.

You said:
how is it you have chosen to accuse me of "mind-reading" etc? Perhaps your own wording is more harsh than you realize

That isn't an accusation at all, Little Rhino! "Mind-reading" is a CBT term and is one of the cognitive distortions. When we think we know what other's are thinking, it can lead to mistaken thoughts and feelings on our part. That's all. No harm intended.

You said,
Then you need to visit chat more
You've got me there! I've been in chat maybe twice in 2 years. Never found much value in it. So you are right, I probably haven't heard as much as you have.

You said,
I don't anywhere say that everyone is deliberately doing this, consciously or otherwise.
You did however, in your original post, say this:

Quote:

Most people, or so i believe, spend a certain amount of time seeking this validation... to whatever extent.

But I suppose I am the one who jumped from 'most people' to 'everyone'.
I still don't really think there is much of a difference.


You said,
i didn't have a "revelation" - dear god, i don't know if you intend this but there is hardly need for an accusatory tone.
Blue Rhino, how is the word 'revelation' accusatory?
I was referring to what you said here in your original post:

Quote:

That one hit me like a 2x4 in the face... i didn't get it at first.

Sorry for my characterization of this as a revelation. That's how it sounded to me.
But I hardly think that characterization is accusatory. It certainly was not intended to be so.

You said,
it is what it is, it is what i see... take it or toss it as you choose
Absolutely, I will toss as I choose. I apologize if my dissension has bothered you in anyway. As you told TheByzntine, i thought this was a discussion. But it is obvious you only want to 'discuss' with like minded people. And I am perfectly fine with that.
Take care.