John Topley hits the nail on the head with this article about Microsoft and the world's negative view of the software giant.  This is just a copy and paste of my comments to his post:

I've had the privilege of being on the inside of MS as a consultant and on the outside as an observer. I won't reiterate your points as you make them very well and I couldn't state them better, but I'm sick and tired of the constant MS bashing and general disdain in the computing world. It's personally hurtful at times - especially when it comes from coworkers or family members. Most of the loathing and bad-mouthing is completely unfounded and without any real understanding of what goes on or why. Having been on the inside I caught a first-hand view of the energy and passion. It is awesome! People claim that MS isn't innovative or they simply steal other company's ideas (or take the companies themselves). That's just a load of bull. The folks at MS have an astounding desire to get things done and get them done well. This leads to amazing innovation. Well I won't rant on, but thank you for putting into words my exact feelings. :)

Excellent points, John!  Keep up the good work.