[2BNTV]

Originally Posted by tpop1

I have been a member of this board for 2 years now and have gained valuable insights on many subjects; insights based on input from you, the contributors. I’ve experienced great restaurants, golf cart service, plumbers, etc. by taking your recommendations.

Recently I have been feeling that contributors’ inputs are increasingly being minimized based on other poster s’ “world views.”

I highly doubt that a person would put information on this board about treatment in a restaurant, or how they feel about the church they attend, just for sport.

A person’s perceptions are very real to them despite what anyone else feels about their experiences at a location.

In fact I have seen the opinions of three posters, with essentially the same experience at one of the local restaurants, be marginalized by several posters because they did not experience it themselves and because they like the establishment.

I find it funny that some establishments (does Too Jays come to mind?) rarely get bad reviews here. Must be something to it?

I will continue to take your views into consideration when dining, purchasing, praying; any time I spend my time or money. You have yet to lead me wrong.
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Originally Posted by SALYBOW

As a hospital chaplain I have come to realize that when people express their feelings, they are just that...feelings. Feelings are neither good or bad... they just are. When I hear someone express a negative view I realize it is their perception of a person, place, or situation. I can choose whether or not to make it mine, but would never do so without trying t out myself.
When I look at things this way I realize that a person should not be judged on a one time experience or comment. I would rather try to discover a trend in their thought. I have probably been guilty of being somewhat negative when I have been going through some rough times. When my 38 yo SIL was diagnosed with bladder cancer I really felt down. Those two kids don't need this kind of thing. Luckily, I have been able to place that situation at My Lord's feet. He is far better equipped to handle the situation than I am. I hope that if I expressed that sadness here, I will be forgiven, or at least forgotten. LOL
What I am trying to say, and possibly badly, it that we need to respect everyone's opinion even when we disagree with it. This freedom of self expression has been won for us by many hero's lives.

Originally Posted by eweissenbach

It seems to me that internet chat boards in general bring out the combativeness in people. Often people say things in response to a post that they would never say face to face. Just check out the politics board if you want to see the extreme example of contenscious debate. If I disagree with someone I try to always frame my response in a way that shows respect for their viewpoint, but asking them to consider a different view. Unfortunately a fair number of people respond by putting down the other person and their viewpoint, which does not further understanding and creates enemies. This seems to be the way of our political discourse in this country, making compromise impossible as both sides insult, mock, and even slander the other as a matter of course. It is not only distasteful, but ultimately very harmful. JMHO. Ed

We should all try to "agree to disagree respectfully".

Somethings are lost when we communicate in this forum as I always try to fully express my thoughts before hitting the submit button. We all have bad days. Putting ourselves in others shoes would help to help understand their position on things/events, etc.