One late night, I had the idea that I would ask people to tell me the best and worst things anybody has said to them or about them and make a collection of their answers. At that time I thought this would be no problem and that I would be able to get a lot of responses. As I asked more and more people, I realized that this was not going to be the case. I thought this was a really simple question, I already knew my answer, but it seemed that for most people this is something they had never thought of before. Going back and reflecting on their lives in order to find not only the best but the worst thing someone had ever said constitutes a vulnerability that most people do not enjoy. Below are the anonymous responses from those who decide to open up and bravely answer the question.
The worst thing anyone has said to me is that I couldn't pass anything, but the best thing would be that they could be me going places and being successful in the future.
I think the worst thing I've been told is "You're not artistic and you'll never be," but the best thing is when my parents told me they believe I can make it in art.
The worst thing: You're nothing but scum on this fucking planet, a stupid little shit stain who would be better off dead than actually trying. The best thing: Thank you for saving my life.
The best thing is that I have nice eyes and the worst thing was when I was called a piece of shit.
Best thing was when my boyfriend said I was smart, pretty, and kind wrap in one. The worst would be when someone spread a rumor that I was with a 40 year old when I wasn't.
Best: That I'm ambitious and prestigious. Worst: that I'm pointless and I'm only an inconvenience to everyone
Worst: (Father) "Look at who you're watching a twenty seven year old man who acts like he's three and look at him, retard. I swear if you get older and act like that I'll slap you and tell you to your face you're retarded and you need to grow up. Best: (a lot of friends) I'm happy that I got to met you. You give me a reason to smile, thank you"
Worst: If you ever turn out gay I'll blow my brains out. Best: Thank you
Worst: It's your fault. Best: I love you.
Worst: you're a disgusting heartless slut and no one else will ever want you so you may as well stay. Best: not only am I proud of you, but I am also inspired by you. You have so much love and faith for the people around you. You don't shy away from feelings. You feel everything, and brave every emotion. I wish I was as strong and brave as you.
One of the worst things someone has said to me was "you will end up alone for the rest of your life. No friends, no marriage, nothing." And that came from one of my parents. The best thing someone has told me was "you have a beautiful soul, you are strong willed and take pride in who you are and for that I admire you." That meant a lot to me because I take pride in whatever I do and (try) to do it perfectly no matter how big or little the task may be, so I really appreciated that.
Worst : "I don't care about your PTSD just get over it." Best: Thank you.
Best: You're not just my mother you're also my best friend . Worst: You're a very mean person.
Worst: You are a piece of shit. Best: You are the reason I'm still alive.
The worst thing someone has ever said to me is "Kill yourself, the world will be better without you in it" but the best thing someone has ever said to me is "Because of you, I feel like I can be brave," because it made me realize, if even for that one person, my existence did make the world a better.
