Dear Pneuma,

I don't usually ask you for this, but I seem to have found a blind spot in my personality, and I cannot figure my way through or around a problem. Earlier this week, I received some information that truly hurt my feelings. It was mean spirited and unnecessary. Today, I discovered that the person that passed it along merely meant it as an FYI. In other words, this person felt it was necessary information to pass along.

Where I am with this, my friend, is on the mat. This information, trivial as it may actually be, still knocked me flat, and I don't really feel like getting up. Part of me says, you don't have to get up. You can simply leave the ring. Part of me says, never give up. Part of me just wants to avoid this particular brand of pain forever. Another part of me says that only facing it down will make it better.

Which voice knows? Which voice is right? It is not as though my decision ultimately impacts anyone but myself. It is not as though there is any kind of punishment or reward. It is not as though, despite Cool Hand Luke's example, taking a beating really confers any kind of dignity or grace. Mostly what we get from taking a punch is a bloody nose.

So, here I am Pneuma-what do you think? When do I simply walk away? When is it necessary to stand? When do I let the "slings and arrows" find their mark? When do I put up a shield or start hurling my own? I'd appreciate any thoughts you can give me.

Yours Always,

Cobalt Dreams.