This haiku was inspired by the song “Candle on the Water” from the 70’s version of Pete’s Dragon. If you’ve never heard this incredible song by Helen Reddy, check it out!
(Text is available in alt text for text-to-speech readers.)
There are many times we’re told “Don’t take it personally.” Sometimes, that makes sense. Constructive criticism, so to speak, probably should not be taken personally — if it’s truly constructive.
However, everyone — no matter what they do or what it pertains to — has been thrown some type of insult and told not to take it personally. There’s a fine line between constructive criticism, though, and the speaker simply trying to get away with derogatory remarks.
As with many things, we need a sense of discernment with this statement. It’s one of the many terms we should not use so flippantly.
In the end, before telling someone to not take it “personally,” remember that he or she is aperson.