I think a lot of rude people are often taking out their pent up stress and insecurities out on others. My husband works as a cable internet technical support person, and he gets unbelievably nasty and rude people on the phone constantly even though he is trying to help them. I also think it tends to be more common over the internet because of anonymity and because people can't see the hurt their words are causing others. Many of the people who are nasty over the net wouldn't have the courage to say those same things to someone's face. It is discouraging, but I find the best solution is usually to ignore it as best you can.

Annette, I can't imagine you being rude, so let's see what you do in the face of rudeness.... What is with you having such darn adorable furkids anyway, what's wrong with you!? Ok ok, I'm just not very good at that