This is a "re-send", because I don't think my post went through the first time. My apologies if I goofed and it shows up as a double-post!

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Greetings, folks! I believe this is my first post on a Renderosity forum. I find this discussion absolutely fascinating!

There is a term for people who denigrate those with artistic intent, desire, and effort. These people are "Poison Friends." I have a couple at work. I work in a computer programming environment...think Dilbert's "Cube City," and you'll get the idea!

Anyhow, I tried a few small works, and I got dissed when I had them up as backgrounds or screensavers. I was shocked and discouraged! I respect these guys! They'd give you the shirt off their backs if you were in trouble or need! They were in Vietnam! They fought for my Country, and they lost buddies! And they would do it all over again!

When I got over my shock, I began to realize that it's my artistic friends who are all usually very encouraging and helpful with their criticism.

And now I realize that my non-artistic friends pretty much "bee-eye-itch" about everything. They hated "Moulin Rouge" they hated "Simone", they don't understand the "Star Wars" thing or "Babylon 5." Circque du Soleil is too expensive. Seeing a concert at House of Blues is too much trouble.

They wine and p*ss and moan about everything. And I believe it's precisely because they DON'T have creative activities or pursuits.

It's not the same as the C4D crowd dumping on Poser people, but it is similar. Without realizing it, my "poison friends" exhibit their own brand of snobbishness.

So what I have done is separate them from my artistic side. Oh, sure, I still post my creative photos and artwork from time to time in my cubicle, but if someone hits me with a rude comment, I tell them that although my work is not perfect, I had fun doing it while relaxing in what little spare time I can find. I am SO busy with work and school and sports and stuff, and yet I still try to make time for making music and art. They all know this.

But to further drive the point home, I nicely ask them "what did you do last night just for fun? Oh, and watching television doesn't really count."

They never have an answer. And I have mine. And it makes me happy.

So all of you artists, whether you're professional or proudly an amature like me, would do well to keep your "poison friends" at arm's length. Remember, a poison friend isn't necessarily somebody who PURPOSELY hurts you, but one who hurts you nonetheless.

Anyhow, don't give up their friendship, mind you! Just don't give them the free and clear opportunities to stab your creativity in the heart while it's still gestating.

Protect and shield that innocent inner child inside you. Yeah, the one with the fingerpaints all over his/her hands, face, body, table, walls, ceiling.....

Oh, yeah....don't even get me started on "American Idol." I think that show is cruel and heartless and very VERY destructive.

Anyhow, thanks for listening, and have a super day!