Online Communities = Support vs. Enabling

Loves your quotes.  I love kids, dog and other animals - isn't our job as a society to look out for those weaker?  I asked if I can delete my posting here because there is no point.  I am creating my own forum that is for action-oriented individuals on another topic more serious topic area but it sure was interesting to see how people responded here.

Take care,

Lynn

I think that you are missing the point that we CAN post our honest thoughts, but we need to think and speak carefully, with respect for one anothers situations AND feelings and not just blurt out "you're a dumb ***"

The more tactful among us, which doesn't always include me, know how to say what needs to be said, in a way that will actually be heard.

Hmm...the best thing about the net is that there are so many varied forums to join and heck, people can even start new ones whenever they like. Then you can go to other forums, to point out that you are starting your forum, lol...

Yep yep, tact...rules are rules and that's really all it boils down to as has been stated, repeatedly...break the rules and you get edited...find a way to say what you feel needs saying within the bounds of whatever rules exist and you're fine and dandy.

lynnsmith

I am defending the right to state one's opinion even if it is not popular. 

Well - you're ugly. 

Wait - before the red ink comes out - that's my opinion, is it not?  And it should be unquestioned right to state my opinion, even if it is unpopular (even if, in some cases, it might only be unpopular with one person, that being the person it is directed at).

So we can see, from this very simple example that, no, not all opinions should be stated.  It is usually common sense which opinions are ones that need to be worded with care and which should simply be kept to yourself.  If in doubt, consider: is this opinion hurtful?  And if it is, or if it might be - is it also HELPFUL, or will it just get their back up to no good end?

If you need lessons in this, look out for posts by calliecritturs.  By gum but she has a knack, doesn't she?  She can tackle an issue that is difficult and say something to the poster which could be very hard to hear indeed - but because she takes time, and care and a great deal of thought in her approach, the person is not only not-offended they often THANK her for the insight.

Think - will the person THANK me for my opinion/advice?  If not - how can I word it so they will?  And if I can't, then does this opinion really need to be voiced?  

Sometimes we all need leesons in "nice".

rwbeagles

Hmm...the best thing about the net is that there are so many varied forums to join and heck, people can even start new ones whenever they like. Then you can go to other forums, to point out that you are starting your forum, lol...

So true, Gina. lol  And when you already have ALL the answers, why not start your own forum?  That way you don't have to really learn anything about how to get along with others.

What's that old line about opinions being like, erm, backdoor exits?  Something about everyone has one but not everyone should share them?

glenmar

What's that old line about opinions being like, erm, backdoor exits?  Something about everyone has one but not everyone should share them?

Well, I'll share mine.  No nuts with my brownies, please...

Yep, that's a place for sure that nuts don't belong. There and in ice cream.....

glenmar

What's that old line about opinions being like, erm, backdoor exits?  Something about everyone has one but not everyone should share them?

Everyone has got one and they often stink

Mine smells like Spam.

And would you ladies like nus or no nuts?  Assuming of course you'd like to have the hypothethical bong passed.....or not.  Brownies are good anytime of day.