I feel very strongly that one should be able to take a hit of offence: a bit of rhino-hide is very helpful to deflect venom. Sometimes one comes across a truly vindictive and nasty person, and the only solution is to rise above the slight, dissociate from the individual and move on – to other people if necessary.
The world is an overgrown playground, with its bullies, wimps, hero(ine)s and guardians. Choose your companions wisely.
Admit when you make a misjudgement.
Try to avoid showing off. Be modest.
Be gracious.
Be genuine.
Above all else, try to do no harm.
Politics, Shmolitics 