Lessons, Episode #2:

Do not feel obligated to explain yourself to another person.  Ever.  If you have to explain yourself it's likely due to the fact that the other party is hell-bent on misunderstanding you anyway.  Stay silent and let the irrational exist with the irrational.

Which leads me to the second part.....

Don't misinterpret silence as guilt.  Or weakness.  Or ignorance.  Silence can also mean that a person has met their bullshit limit and has chosen to gracefully turn and walk away.  Self respect?  Maybe.  Self preservation?  Most definitely.

And then part three....

Do not let another person's emotional catastrophe make you feel responsible.  Read that again.  You are NOT responsible for anyone's mess.  Only your own.