It's like that with writing too. Two people read something and each takes away something different.
Best Wishes,
Blittie

It depends on the experience and where I'm at in my life. I've been on both sides at various times.

Yes and it depends on who the writer is. Paul Krugman writes it, I am despondent. Sarah Palin writes it, I'm amused. Go figure.

The older I get, the more often I walk away amused...

I never see the down side. I need to have it pointed out to me.
Blittie: I wrote a funny story and a reader said that it was "very deep, sad, and I liked it better for that." Go figure.
BikePsych: I've seen someone move from up to down after cancer intruded on her life. I've never seen anyone move in the other direction.
Sheepie: You're right. I have the same reactions, ha.
Felisa: It would be wonderful if age made everyone look on the bright side. I did read about a study saying that older people really are happier than younger people. You may have something there.

I try to be amused. Nothing much comes from being despondant.

I hope I am the amused one because that would mean good things.