I do love this post, Kristin!  And I love your way with words!  I think in similar rhythms.

As I told you on twitter (@mkettleson there) I have learned painfully that it is best to disengage from those whose main motive shows up over time as "capturing my emotions in a negative way".  But it doesn't come easily!

And aren't you glad you are naturally someone with the energy and optimism to believe intuitively that engagement is productive?  I know I am!  And I hope I never lose that general optimism, even if I have to learn with a few more people that it is best to just disengage from conflict with them.

--maria