Blogging Karma

Karma decided to teach me a lesson on Friday, one which I don't think I'll forget for a while.

In my spare time, I decided to hit the internet and do a little bit of Techorati searching for anything related to this web site. Much to my dismay, I found a couple of very unflattering reviews of The Men in Aprons Show. One review dogged us pretty hard (which as been rescinded), and the ot her was an in-depth critique of every aspect. I was really upset about it all, and for two reasons.

First, I was upset because I work so hard at getting the show out and I'm pretty proud that our hobby has brought some happiness to a few people. I believe in what I'm doing. I believe in the mission of Men in Aprons. To have someone give a negative opinion really hit me to the core.

Second, I was upset because most of the criticisms were accurate. They pointed out stuff that I knew already and I have been wanting to fix. The truth hurts, and I fell victim to the truth.

To the first review, I left a comment thanking them for the link and the mention. In the world of blogging and podcasts, any publicity is good publicity. This is a fact I know and appreciate. For blogging in particular, a link can increase your pagerank in Google's algorithm. Links bring you traffic which can bring you clicks on ads.

To the second review, I sent an email to the guy thanking him for the honest and in-depth critique. I was sincerely thankful for this because we need the feedback. We can't get better at our show unless we hear what people think.

I was depressed for the rest of the day. I didn't want to do anything or even lift a finger. Then, hours and hours later, I realized what had happened. I realized that I was meant to read those reviews, and that I was meant to deal with it.

Flashback to two or theee days prior, I posted some mean stuff about Rachael Ray. I made fun of her and ballyhooed an anti-Rachel Ray web forum.

I sat bolt upright and did the old "should have had a V-8" forehead slap. Karma had intervened in my life to teach me a lesson: Don't dish it if you can't take it. If you can't take the criticism, then you probably shouldn't be criticising others.

I instantly felt better after having this epiphany. Now, don't get me wrong. I still loathe Rachael Ray. I think she's a nuisance. But I'm going to ease up on her. I apparently had a tough time taking the heat, so I should watch what I say. Besides, it's a lot better for everyone to inform, entertain, and point out the positive.