I try to educate people about snakes when the topic comes up and if people are receptive I'll talk to them about reptiles or even show them one or two. If their attitude is dismissive or hostile I ignore them. Life is too short to let other people's opinions make you feel bad or unsure about yourself or your interests. I would advise all new and young reptile owners not to "force" their reptiles or passion for them on anyone but to politely correct someone when you hear nonsense like "poisonous" or "could eat you" etc. I have convinced my neighbors to call me when unwanted wildlife shows up on their property and over the years I have relocated several "scary" beasts such as ringneck and garter snakes. They get piece of mind and I get to save a snake or other critter from being killed. I also try to avoid the subject of feeding snakes with anyone who doesn't seem to have a genuine interest them. Some folks would gladly let a snake starve to death to save a mouse.