(nothing like an editor making a major flub in the title – LMAO)
An old expression, which dates back to the 16th century if anyone cares, but still used now and again. Meaning?
♦ to present an ideal version of yourself (to impress others) ♦ to make the best possible impression ♦ to start trying hard to be the best, or as good, as you can, or ♦ a favorable initial impression.
It popped into my head the other day while browsing author-related social media. Sadly, there are still people out there who like to criticize others—for how they write, an idea they have, a book they’ve written, a manuscript they hope will be published.
In my travels, I also found some posts that disparaged others for their views, comments, ideologies, and even looks. Are we so perfect that we have that right—to condemn or ridicule or laugh at?
I always attempt to consider others’ feelings and respond/write accordingly. However, I’m guilty of making a recent comment that, while not outright critical, probably wasn’t that nice . . . which is why I felt compelled to post about it. It was a rare moment and the post I was responding to rather . . . well . . . shocked me. So much so, I wrote a terse reply.
While there’s nothing wrong with constructive criticism (and I’ve posted re this previously), there’s a lot wrong with critical destructiveness.
We truly are unique individuals, and being “one-of-a-kind” should be honored and valued. How dull and predictable the world would be if we were all the same.
Treat others with the respect they [we] deserve. Enough said.
The Writer's Grab-Bag 