I don't tolerate being talked down to in any shape, way, or form, it's insulting and ill-mannered. I always respond with aggressiveness, because I find that's the only thing they'll understand. If I'm polite, they walk all over me, if I'm an *ss, they usually think twice before engaging me again in conversation (which is fine with me), especially when I make them look stupid.
My philosophy is, if they want to talk down to me, I'll talk down to them. If they show a little respect, then I show respect. I treat people how they treat me, simple as that, most people don't like being on the receiving end of their own sh*t.
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Writer. Author.