As you write here, I think there is a difference between "re-act" and "respond". Re-act means repeating a past pattern, emotions which we used to develop in certain situations, and simply "do it again".
Responsibility is the ability to respond. Seeing each situation as new and "act new".
And yes, taking criticism with humor or lightly is a really good attribute to have, because after all there is no need to convince anyone. If they like it, great. But if not, then that is great as well. Instead we should rejoice about the fact that each of us has the freedom to perceive thinks uniquely. Acceptance creates Harmony.
I always knew humour was important in handling difficult situation. But I really saw it it action when I was working in a gallery, doing demos. There was this guy that use it to smooth angry customers that came into complain about the framing that was done for them. The whole situation turned around and the customers would walk out of the gallery with a smile. Not only because the problem was fixed, but that the joke was good and the whole conversation and interaction was so pleasant.