First of all...Shame on those who aim for the belt of your soul.
I consider this type of exchange to be somewhat of a Mechanism check.
They are checking for your vulnerabilities.
However, in turn...you can measure your inner strengths.
Measure twice, cut once ~ as they say.
These are moments that build our Character.
They are also moments when we realize the rotten core of the Apples we
brought into our lives and set at our tables. Every so often, I find myself
having to re-assess my own collection of 'Apples'. Some are still as
shiny as the day I chose them. Some of them...not so much.
Some have yet to show me their Core.
It is up to me how I allow the rotten Cores to effect my Character.
Remember the old grade school game '...Apple Core...who's yer friend?'
Someone would announce a name, and said Apple Core would
get launched at the persons name that was called out.
Learn to Duck quickly, my friend.
More importantly ~
Build upon that which others use to as weapons.
ETA ~ I've had my share of folks who aimed at the length of my hair
in order to attempt a sideswipe at mah Butchness.
I thank them for assisting in building my Character as it is today.