life help: A typical American story… I am a single mother drowning in paperwork, debt, and the judgements of strangers. - Help.com

Great question! I’d like to congratulate you for asking it in this way.

When people are hurt, they lash out at others. This makes them feel better because they don’t feel so weak. They can cover up their hurt or ignore their hurt by making others look and feel small. This is bullying. Sarcasm is a form of bullying.

The key here is to recognize what your fears are. Accept that you are afraid. That is ok. You don’t have to pretend to be strong by bullying others. You don’t have to hide everything from everybody.

The fact is, people know everything isn’t right regardless of whether you are upfront with them or not. It’s in your face, the way you conduct yourself, and obviously in your sarcasm.

Reach out to others rather than being afraid of their judgments. We are all flawed creatures and we all want to help each other when we don’t feel judged or attacked. Your sarcasm is a barrier between you and the natural human kindness that is around you.

Of course you need to realize that everyone else hides their insecurities as well. Don’t take it personally. Judging others is just a way of distracting ourselves from our own weaknesses.