Michal bas Shaul was a super Tzadekes who wore Tefilin (Gemara) and Dovid loved her especially. She was much greater than all of us. Yet, we see how important are Middos, which overrides all kinds of greatness; especially not “needing” people. The Midda of HaHish'tavus (that whether people praise you or criticize you, is “equal” to you; you couldn’t care less) is Tachlis HaChamudos, the most desirable Midda in the universe. (Chovos Halvavos). It’s time to dance when you have Tachlis HaChamudos. By being “free”, you have the most fun and happy life. You can be yourself, and not one whole piece of other peoples’ opinions. You have a lifetime of dancing with Simcha.
When you’re writing your Maalos and are trying to build up your self-esteem, there are many, many Maalos that people don’t appreciate. Like your struggles, or your scary Yetzer Hara that you barely conquer, or your Yissurim in Ruchaniyus and Gashmiyus; these are your best Maalos according to Hashem. But by people, it’s all about how many accomplishments and Kavod you get; that’s all that counts by them.
It's all about your finishing Shas, your many Chasadim and Tzeddakos, and your talents (that aren’t really yours, but were given to you by Hashem); this is what people appreciate. Not your pain in Ruchaniyus, which gives you a million times more Schar. It pays to be a: ְפּ ִנ ִמיי genuine type of person; you serve only Hashem, and THAT’S all that counts.
