Food is definitely cross-cultural and ageless, isn't it?  

I don't speak for others, but in my perspective, my image and content has been all over the internet since 1999.  It's not "required" to verify your ID with a picture and the date - ***but it certainly helps***. It gets the attention of people who are trying to find flesh & blood creators...and isn't the bottom line to build a good following to earn some decent money?

Here's another way of looking at "shout-outs".  There are so many initiatives from people who want to find good quality creators and give them exposure: robinhoodwhale, nameinlights, and projectnewbie to name a few.  We shout them out and call attention to them.  When they link to our things, we consider it a very good thing - a blessing and a gift.  

But when we are called out because our identity is in question, it is shocking and hurtful, especially if you're not a bot.  *But here's why I think this experience may be a very good thing for you.*

Let go of the pride associated with feeling like you've been attacked.  You were indeed called out and you've responded so we know you're human.  

I was in the newspaper business for 7 years and I can tell you "bad news" sells better than "good news."  I wouldn't be surprised if you've gotten an influx of people viewing your posts - maybe even a few new followers - and hopefully no haters.  Haters suck.

***You've currently got an audience reading your responses.  Will you overcome adversity and be seen with grace and dignity?  What you do from here is entirely up to you.***  

### To err is human, to forgive - *Divine*