I have always kind of agreed and still do. Like I've said all along I was never sure that my rating was right. That is not the issue nor the reason for the orig post.
Perhaps the wording of my questions leaves something to be desired.
I highlited my questions in the original post to help clarify.
The problem is..
you've already left the negative feedback. It's out there. For all to see. It gives the impression that you had a bad experience with this seller which in fact, you didn't.
But now he has to live with this negative despite the fact he fulfilled his end of the transaction.
That's the reason why leaving a negative is such a big deal and why he was so worked up over your response. It's why Ebay specifically loads a second page up asking you if you had attempted to reach the seller and come to an understanding before you leave the negative. Remember, had the old system been in place he could've just as easily left a negative on you for being difficult.
Ebay used to have an option to remove a negative feedback rating after the fact. I don't know if that's possible anymore. You might want to check that out.
I agree that the initial negative was harsh, maybe uncalled for and out-of-line.
However, now, why on earth would you even want to remove the negative feedback?
Like has been stated before, the guy did nothing to improve his standing with HIS CUSTOMER, only make hard feelings that much harder. Livelihood or not, the seller chose his line of work. Customer service should be the same whether face to face or through a computer.