I kind of understand the jealousy reason for the comments. But in my pre-bearded days when my sides were too immature for a full beard, I always was extremely jealous of guys I saw with a great beards. Rather that negative comments, all I could do was give complements. Even if I could not grow one, I was gald to see others doing so.

Andrew - You have a fine beard. Change your hair style if you wish, but leave the beard alone.

My Beard Journey:  http://jefffsbeardboard.yuku.com/topic/25137/Finally-I-have-a-Beard
Beard and Bald Thread:  http://jefffsbeardboard.yuku.com/topic/27831/Beard-bald-head-shaved-head-or-buzzcut
Patchy Beard Success Stories:  http://jefffsbeardboard.yuku.com/topic/33742/Patchy-Beard-success-stories-Before-and-After-photos#.ViujbH7nuM8
Taming the Wild Mustache:  http://jefffsbeardboard.yuku.com/topic/30822/Taming-the-Wild-Stache#.Vj_Mh7erTIU