Wednesday, February 27, 2008

All Family?

One thing that can be said of my critics: they're consistent.

Another thing: I like them too much to ignore them. And so, at times, they get under my skin (but then they already know that; I'm half convinced it's why they criticize).

At any rate, tonight, one of my eternal critics (and a closet MyndFood junkie) was talking about the wide variety of topics found here, and how readers must feel never knowing quite what to expect when they log on. She said that my readers must think I'm bipolar.

Perhaps you do.

I have to admit, it stung a bit, although I like to think that the variety of topics found here adds to the allure (variety is, after all, the spice of life; connoisseurs don't frequent restaurants because the food is plain and boring).

I thought about it for a moment, and made an offhand note that my readership isn't dwindling; in fact it seems to be slowly growing which means that you, my diners, must enjoy the mix. She gave it a moment's thought and said that it's probably because my entire readership is family.

I regularly check the hit counter, and it tells me where many of you are from. I'm certain that I have no relatives in Tehachapi, CA; or San Diego, CA; or Dixon, IL; or Houston, TX; or Lake Mary, FL; or Spruce Grove, Canada. But then maybe I'm wrong.

I'll admit, I don't think she meant it as a barb; it was a joke more than anything. But it still stung. You've likely noticed by now that when I'm feeling something, I go hunt down quotes that speak to that particular feeling. I found two that resonated with me:

We are injured and hurt emotionally, not so much by other people or what they say and don't say, but by our own attitude and our own response.
-Maxwell Maltz


Strength of character means the ability to overcome resentment against others, to hide hurt feelings, and to forgive quickly.
-Lawrence G. Lovasik


Both strong quotes that speak for themselves. But then I also realize that she was joking. It did concern me though. Are you all just my family (not that I don't value my family; I LOVE that you guys read MyndFood, but I'm looking to solidify myself as a legitimate writer, read voluntarily by those who don't feel a familial obligation to read)?

So, I've posted a poll. Let me know if you're related or not. In the meantime, I'm gonna go down to the grocery store, and pay $1.00 to each non-relative who agrees log on and vote...

(PS: Vote early, and vote often!)

5 comments:

Mrs. Willman said...

No family ties here. I just like reading because I never know what to expect and its usually witty in one dry way or another.
Bipolar? I think not.

Anonymous said...

Where do I vote? also The comments area is different. No place to sign as Mother
Love Mother

SheGazelle said...

I think I can choose if I want to be related to you or not, right?

Oh, and I've come to one conclusion about such critics- they are upset because they don't have groovy blogs like us. Trust me, I've got a sect of my own critics, so you're not alone.

And by the way, since you have such a cool blog, I'll be related to you.

Katie Booker said...

I think maybe said critic is jealous that they aren't related to such a whit as you! One who can keep their audience captivated no matter WHAT the topic is...

So, I say, I'll claim you...but only for blogsake! jk

Anonymous said...

I'm not related, but relatives turned me on to Myndfood and I enjoy the variety...well, except for the quarter thing. As to your being a writer, I believe you've got what it takes and I keep watching the pages meter to see when you'll begin. Good luck! A.L.