RussellK wrote: Maybe the suck comments weren't directed at me but do you honestly think they are acceptable?
Russell, I said "this conversation sucks" when all the one word or three-word nonsequitors killed the development of what was a good thread. Your contributions were/are appreciated and have always been appreciated.
Me too, but I can't just pack it in. I have to find a solution, and I want your input.RussellK wrote: It's to the point where I don't engage most people in meaningful conversation because it seems like it breaks down to tit for tat or stupid talking points. I find myself getting sucked in and I don't like it.
Me too! And damn it to hell, I do not want people I consider to be friends to get mowed down by inanity and boorishness. I am not the Supreme Court, and I will be damned if I am going to pander to a bunch of children hollering at the dinner table " I get to interrupt because I am an American with the right to Free Speech!" The "right" to Free Speech here in this forum comes with clearly spelled-out rules, just like the right to free speech in the U.S. comes with admonishments not to yell fire in a theater. You, of course can go ahead and yell "fire!" in a theater, and you can go ahead and take the consequences too.RussellK wrote: Silly as it may seem this forum is a place where I've grown to like many of the participants and liked many of the discussions. This little dust-up touched a nerve.
Damn right. Try humoring an old man whose neurons have been wasted by GumOut, too.RussellK wrote: You'll just have to humor an old man.
We ALL have the responsibility every damn day we are alive in this country to improve the dialogue between us. I do not expect the children to get it without guidance.
Colin