I was raised that saying something like “MUST BE NICE TO HAVE ________”. (Enter whatever the other person is jealous of, money, looks, talent) is ill mannered. It shows that you’re envious and can’t deal with your own shortcomings, or lack of whatever it is you’re commenting on. In other words, you’re just plain jealous and can’t deal with it.

Other ways they say it are: “I wish I had your ______. “ talent, looks, money, etc. with the intention being that the comment makes you feel guilty for your blessings. It’s just plain nasty to me, why a friend would say something like that.

What’s a good comeback for that so they stop saying it? I have a friend who can’t stand that I play piano and she gets nasty about it and always says something sarcastic like, “welll, don’t you just steal the show!” Then she’ll roll her eyes and make a face. I want to stay friends, but I’d like to shut her up with something witty. Can’t think of anything. Help!