[jean310]

Being pleasant to be around is very different from kissing ass. Being unpleasant is commonly known as being an ass in America ;)

[FollowingTheDao]

If I am pleasant to gain mobility or status, because, as you said, it provides opportunity, that’s being a kiss ass.

I am in no way suggesting walking around just being negative, instead, being negative, not unpleasant, but being negative, when appropriate is honest, and humble.

[TedDoesntTalk]

> being negative, when appropriate is honest, and humble.

It neither honest nor humble necessarily. It's a mindset, a perception, and a choice. You filter reality through your mindset. You choose to respond negatively or in some other way.