And the trick is knowing the difference. Sometimes I feel like some friendly teasing or sarcasm back would help strenghten the relationship, but I do tend to be very sensitive (a trait I’ve come to accept) and so I don’t return the serve (to use a tennis metaphor). I’d sooner leave the court rather than offer a poor return or escalate the back and forth rally to a place that I won’t be able to handle.

Reacting in any other matter other than jokingly laughing it off usually solicits the reaction, “Oh, don’t be so sensitive. I’m only joking”.

So why do I take it so personally? I’m not really sure.

Part of me wishes I could as easily banter and joke around without meaning what I say, but words are very important to me and I do my best choose them carefully.