Your intention made a lot of sense to me while reading it. I wonder if the reaction you received is partly due to cultural differences. The comparison of sufferings is common in Japan. It's not a fun habit/phenomenon here either but I would say it's a given.

The reaction of readers who took your well-meant story is a reaction. Period. Your apology was not necessary, but since it's done, that should be the end of discussion. On Medium, we can't and shouldn't censor ourselves (not you, just generally speaking) while walking on eggshells--as long as we follow the rules of civility and publication. That is why I find the Bouncin' and Behavin' Blog publication so refreshing and liberating.

KEEP DOING YOU cuz it's beautiful! Period.