...in my various workplaces and through life.

Sometimes people stay in situations longer than they should. Or longer than they know better. Sometimes they're stuck there because they have no other outlet, and they feel that there isn't anything else they can do (because of lack of education, or they're too stupid, or something). Some are just too lazy to go find another situation that's better for them. Some feel like they're not going to find anything else. Some people just give up.

Sometimes you shouldn't make friends in the workplace, because when one or the other person advances, neither take it well. If the relationship dissolves, then someone is bitter (and usually, wrongly so).

You should never criticize a person constructively who, in the past, has shown that they can't handle it.

You should never fake enthusiasm, happiness, or a positive attitude - it just takes more energy than it's worth - it's easier to apologize for your lack thereof than to fake it.

You're never truly persecuted until you start thinking that you are.

Somethings should never be discussed in public among large groups of people. These things include abortion, religion and politics. In large groups of people these are the topics that break down into shouting matches, bad feelings, and leads to the general distrust of the individuals who intervene with posturing and attempts to lead the topic away from its original intent.

Never say anything out loud that you don't want getting back to the people who it's about. Especially when said among people who love to muckrake.

Respect is a commodity that is too often trampled on.

Sometimes you need to know when to walk away... I think I'm past that point with something and should have walked away a year ago. I'm really ready to throw the towel in now, but stupidity and great respect for a couple of people will probably keep me from walking away.

That's all I want to say right now... maybe I'll have something more brilliant to say tomorrow. Please try and have a good day...