If you hear that someone is speaking ill of you, instead of trying to defend yourself you should say: "He obviously does not know me very well, since there are so many other faults he could have mentioned."

It's usual for people to talk behind others back. I mean this is what the mouth is for. It's impossible for anyone to live through a life unscathed and unhurt by words.

The bottom line is... does the person MEAN it?

And so what if they really mean it?

Is these people important to you? No one knows yourself better than you.

Why not just laugh it away? And concentrate on those who really care.