I can take constructive criticism

This week, I received a call from a reader who was very unhappy with me. This caller asked why I did not attend a certain local event. I told the caller that although I did not attend the event in order to obtain a photo, I did request a copy of the event program so that we could recognize individuals involved in the event. This did not impress the caller.

The caller proceeded to ask where I was during the event. I tried to keep the conversation from escalating by apologizing and further explaining my point-of-view. When I asked the caller for their name, they decided to end the conversation and the line went dead.

This was not my first unhappy caller, but most callers are willing to participate in a constructive conversation regarding the issue that has upset them. Nothing I said seemed to make sense to this caller, and there was nothing I could do to correct what the caller saw as my mistake.

I can certainly take constructive criticism, and I will acknowledge my errors, but I also expect callers to make an attempt to have a constructive conversation with me. I will extend respect to anyone who would like to talk to me by telephone (847-2610), at our office on Main Street in Cassville or in the Barry County community. I only ask that individuals attempt to extend respect in my direction as well.