Rainbow and Flowers (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I don’t understand it when I happen to come across negative and plain disrespectful comments (not real reviews) about a new published book (or art work), whether from an old or new author.  What puzzles me is that many times, these comments don’t seem to help in any way the writer or artist who made the comment.  On the contrary, I think that this negativity hurts the writer/artist and paints an aura of insecurity or jealousy around the writer/artist.  This could end up hurting the artist who might end up loosing many readers/fans for these reasons,

• They may already enjoy the works of the author/artist who’s being criticized.
• They may not like to entertain any kind of negativity or bashing and are ready to cut off the source of it.
• They believe that in this world, there is plenty for everybody and that celebrating the success of another does not take away from your own.
• They may enjoy variety in the books they read or the artwork they love.
• They believe that this world is made of all kinds and everyone has something to offer and contribute to it, even when they don’t necessarily like the piece.
• They believe that if everyone acted in the same way and liked the same things and were mere copies of each other, this would be a very boring world.
• They believe that a step towards belittling someone or someone’s work is a step backwards and does not help personal and professional development/growth.
• They believe that there is a better way to say what they think without hurting the feelings of a fellow artist/writer.
• They believe that acting in a negative and bashful way towards a fellow artist/writer might be interpreted as desperation, frustration, or jealousy.
• They believe that by celebrating the success of others, they attract good karma and bounty to themselves.
• They believe in these mantras – What comes around goes around.  You reap what you sow.   It is a small world.  Be kind to the people on your way up, because they are the same people you will meet on your way down.  The wheels are turning.  Keep the faith.  You never know who will open the next door for you, or who is ready to close it on your face.  When words are not better than silence, it is best to not pronounce them.  Live and let live.
• They believe that they are a tiny spec on this world, but an important part of it.
• They believe that times change and that “times” are subject to the people who live on “those times.”
• They believe that their art/craft is not about them, but about the ones who will find it and benefit – even if only one person.
• They believe in themselves, and that is enough to celebrate another.

Keep it clean, keep it positive, keep it happy!