A few weeks ago at a conference one of the plenary speakers said something that has rolled around in my mind since then. She said the opposite of love is not hate. The opposite of love is silence. (That may be the wrong word, but it conveys the thought.)
When you ignore someone, you are basically saying, “I do not even acknowledge your existence.” At least with an act of hatred you are acknowledging that person is in the room.
It’s a powerful thought. I know that when I bring something up in a meeting or try to point out an issue and then get NO RESPONSE, it is far more hurtful than having a reaction to counter what I just said.
Apprentice 2 Jesus 
I agree and can identify because I get very quiet when I’m mad or don’t care.
Jeff
this is a powerful point – could the same be said of not responding to blog or facebook comments?
Brian,
I wasn’t ignoring you! 🙂
brain, I think that would only be in effect if something is addressed to you directly.
Jeff
And in the case, the only time I don’t respond is if the person is being very mean and I don’t want to continue. Never happened on FB of course but on blogs a few times.
Jeff
So true.
Silence is a killer. I can agree with this alot. when I am speaking and no one says anything, i wonder why bother?
i can settle for a nod or a shake of the head but nothing? it does hurt. it feels like i am being ignored. that what i say doesnt matter.