Detractors

Detractors is a better word to use than critics. Critics use facts and a balanced perspective, mentioning good as well a bad aspects of the subject they are speaking of.

Detractors only want to diminish, to take away from, etc.

I have my detractors. Afraid of my message, afraid that what I say may be true, and the consequences of that truth. They are afraid that people truly are communal in nature. Afraid that each individual has a responsibility to the rest of society. Afraid that selfishness is not justified. Afraid that the cure to homelessness really will require their participation. Afraid that everyone will have to make at least a small sacrifice to insure the well being of all people.

And so they attack me - not the issues I talk about, not the stand I take on behalf of others, they only attack me personally. The reasoning being, that if they can prove me as being less than perfect, then they can disregard the things I say, the things I proclaim.

For example, a person says I am being a fraud because I still call this blog "The Homeless Guy" even though I am now living in transitional housing. And I've been told that I should not talk about what makes a good parent because I am divorced and no longer have contact with my children.

All I can hope for is right thinking and open mindedness of my readers - that they judge what I say on the merits of the statements. You bet, I admit to being as flawed as anyone else. But, I have also learned a few things during my 47 years on this planet. And these things I share with whomever wishes to talk to me, or read my blog.