(it's hard not to take things personal when your talking about ones physique
it's not like a car or boat...................i t's the "shell" that i live in )
Mike, you have made an amazing transition, but this is the sport of BBing... but you can't take things personal when someone gives an honest assessment of your physique.
Compared to the average 40+ year old, that "shell" is phenomenal. But compared to seasoned competitors with awesome genetics, your flaws are going to be revealed. So while your focus and drive is impressive, you gotta keep it in perspective man, and not take things so seriously. I have a bad feeling if you don't place well, you're going to be pretty down. Compliments from strangers have brought you to happy years here... I worry that negative words affect you equally, if not more.
And remember- it's just a muscle beauty contest and a trophy. Make your personal transition the victory, and the show is just a little icing.
(And this was not flaming, so there's no need to come to his defense, you-know-who).