Well I'll be damned...

[sgt_sassypants]

As I was catching up on LJ on a couple friends (yes, I lurk a lot!) I came across something that rather bothered me. Now I know the individual this was intended for -- no, that's the wrong word, more appropriately, the individual who inspired me to ponder this -- will most likely not read it. But someone who I love dearly expresses concern that I

Comments

'allo...

[cuzjjsaidso]

Hey, Gail, it's JJ. I've added you to my friends list!
Isn't it interesting how others view you. I mean, from what little we've talked, you're a stand up sorta gal. Problem is, I was going for something to say in this comment, but my train of thought derailed. Great...another mess to clean up. Well, anyway, take care.

[countessclarity]

Hiya gorgeous! I don't really know what happened, but if I find out who hurt my Gail... Well, let's just say it won't be pretty! *hugs*

You are one of the most awesome people I have ever had the delight to meet, and I consider you one of my best friends. Ever. I agree people shouldn't judge someone that they haven't had the chance to really communicate with, whether it be in person, or through chatting. It's not fair to make judgements from what someone else has said. That's basically not thinking for yourself. Letting someone else decide how you feel.

I <3 you and hope to see you in St. Louis!
Amy

[errosive]

I think theory two fits more appropriately to a general sense of society. Since we all judge (in varying degrees) and then vocalize our opinions to our friends, who then either will agree or disagree with that judgement or feel that there is not enough evidence there to pose a good judgement. We all have different methods on which we judge people, and to each person it is different. The other side of the coin is how you allow that judgement to effect you. Some people let it get to them, and then as time progresses they actually change based on these judgements to fit into a more societal(I think I made that word up) role. Or not.

In other words...judgement like shit...it happens.

[good_ol_don]

Indeed.

Actually, I feel it's more of an ego-stabilizer than a Darwinian elimination process. If someone passes judgment negatively without meeting someone, usually that's a fair sign of an unhealthy self-image.

If the person keeps the unhealthy image of the other person to him- or herself, it just gnaws at them and builds up, like a rolling snowball in a cartoon that becomes an avalanche later.

However, if the person lets that opinion out to those who will listen, not only does it remove the effects of keeping the hatred or disgust bottled up, but it also establishes a support network of people who will readily agree with your image of the person (who, most likely, the supporters have never met, either), thus making the original judge feel better, because he or she now feels superior about him- or herself in comparison to the person judged AND has a group of "yes-men" to back it up.

And who says gossiping's not healthy? I'm sorry ... I seem to have misplaced my sarcasm tags as well.

[aabassplayer]

Hey there, Ms. Sassypants

[good_ol_don]

I looked up to you in high school...

... and you're still a cool guy. Just be careful what you say about Gail, mmkay?

[aabassplayer]

yeah...sorry Don...Just making some good fun...I don't mean to offend.

[good_ol_don]

Just taking a more pro-active protective approach to my girlfriend. That's all.

I know you're fine. I just have to make an example outta you for all those out there who wouldn't treat her right.

YOU HEAR ME, YOU CADS? I'M TALKING TO YOU!!

[drtrauma]

Hugs

...and why is it that I don't have you on my FList?