<p>There is a certain hubris in assuming people would be upset about your grand news, because there’s a comparison going on before a word is spoken. If I am irritated at college news, perfect grandbaby news, lovely exotic vacation news, you assume it is jealousy or envy or despair (because my life is judged less awesome from where you’re sitting, so naturally you assume I am those things)</p>
<p>Maybe you are just boring. Maybe I’m tired. Maybe I’m wondering if I let the dog out or the iron on. Maybe I came from chemo or a funeral or counseling. Maybe my kid did something wonderful too — but by crowing (made up example!) about “she has worked so hard to get this scholarship” I’m assuming you don’t want to hear about our efforts to pay the bill. Grownups worry waaaaay too much about getting or giving the “right” feedback. </p>
<p>And if you haven’t been scolded on CC, you aren’t trying hard enough! I love everyone’s varied perspective --</p>