That is quite a tale of woe, Rommy. Very sorry that that happened to you. I guess although maybe an expensive mistake, it might not be a costly to you as it would be for others here. So in a sense, your willingness to share the misfortune and open yourself up to ridicule serves others here to take in account how to go about things properly. Thanks that your pride didn't get in the way of sharing your hard-learnt lesson. I guess your excitement overcame your rational mind, and you cut some corners. Better to be reminded of that flaw on something like a pinball than have it create a tragedy with someone you love.
Anyway, overall the majority have responded to you in a sympathetic tone, for we all have screwed something up with a pin (I thought I killed my CFTBL hologram recently) and some with a reasonable concern for holding you accountable. That is one strong aspect of pinside. I am sure that you will have the game back in decent condition in little time with all the help shown here.
And then there are those that seize the opportunity to condemn you and not your action or choice. It is always the same people who self-righteously condemn a mistake or belittle another's achievement. they do not realize that the expose themselves to their own judgment, for the thing they might condemn in another is the very thing they hate about themselves or take undue pride in. This is what is meant by "Judge not, lest ye be judged." You will point out in others what you dislike or favor in yourself exposing your flaws or selfish pride. Either way you say, "I am not up to snuff" or actively seek recognition because you are the one in disbelief.
An action does not an identity make. Condemnation is about identity," you are an_____!" Conviction is about behavior or attitude, "I shouldn't have said that," or "that was really crappy of me." Most likely, someone who constantly attacks others' identity is condemning is their own self-talk, "I'm a ___." It is a shame. When I encounter people who attack my identity, they are already judging themselves as having a poor sense of themselves saving me the need to do anything but leave them to themselves.
The wiser and maturer a person is, the more they are supportive and compassionate (LTG for example); the less-the more critical and condemning. One has much to give to others out of fullness; the other needs to take from others because of emptiness or diminish others down to their own level.
Springdale, AR
It's a very hard lesson you've had to learn, Rommy, and I feel terrible for ya. 
Toronto, ON
