I occasionally get messages or letters from people who don’t like something I said in a talk or something I posted online. They then seek to give me their advice on how I should teach or what I should say. While I’m sure they are well-meaning, I’m guessing they don’t realize that unsolicited advice is worth about as much as you pay for it. Occasionally I feel the need to stand up for my beliefs or to correct a lie, but I’m not talking about that, I’m talking about petty critiquing. Your criticism has more to do with your frustrations with your life and worldview than it does with the person you are criticizing. Relationships are the key to critical feedback. A high trust relationship creates an environment in which criticism can actually be well-received and behavior corrected. If I don’t know someone well, I don’t offer my advice.

It’s okay to disagree with someone and simply not say (or type) anything. If they have a huge problem I’m sure their spouse, family members, or close friends will tell them; your help is not welcome nor required. It’s okay to just walk away and let them and you have a great day.