I never meant to say you are weaker, truly, which is why I also said that neither of us is wrong. I actually did not say you were weaker either.
Its just I spent so long taking things too personally in my youth, that I finally just let some hang-ups go. I used to worry about my weight, that I sounded stupid to my intelligent friends, my career. I never seemed to be going anywhere fast against my peers. It seemed such a waste of energy and a source of stress. I felt much better for it, and some self-confidence has made me a much better person. I am me, and I have to accept me for me, including all my imperfections, and now when I get some insults, I either brush them off, or if its something thats really touched a nerve, I try to improve myself. This does not mean that I am not sensitive to those around me, as I am. I get told a lot by people how kind I am, and go out of my way to help people, or even just to raise a smile which I have done all my life. But by being thick skinned does not equal insensitive.

And this is my point. If people were to accept themselves for themselves, then any joking, and insults or indeed anyone accidentally stepping over boundaries, then it would be a lot easier for people to brush it off. If folk actually look at the facts of stuff, ie, this gentleman is living with his g/f, loves his g/f and feels awful for putting his foot in it, then forgiveness should come easily. Not talking, sulking and picking up on anything and everything they've ever said that could be seen as insensitive is not good for a relationship and it pretty much stems from low self esteem.