[dddave]

For those who complain about complaining, or consider someone who is complaining as wasting their time, I ask you to consider using another word to describe what is going on - debate.

I know there a quite a few "poster" who are "hash slingers". And, yes, I agree they should be avoided. However, I think a majority of posters are actually trying to start a sane, reasonable discussion on a point that others might not agree with.

When done properly and with civility, it can be a very enjoyable mind exercise. I suspect that quite a few "complainers" are some of our older, house-bound residents who have limited outside contact. They are begging to be heard. They are smart; they watch much news and have opinions about what they see.

Just as a reminder, the ancient form of debate was rhetoric. In Greece and Rome schools were opened where the entire curriculum was on rhetoric. And if you mastered it, stadiums would fill with people to hear you verbally battle an opponent. The most successful rheterotians had statues built in their honor, and became extremely wealthy.

So, I suggest you hone your rhetorical skills and enjoy deflating the egos of "hash-slingers".

[dewilson58]

Originally Posted by dddave

When done properly and with civility, it can be a very enjoyable mind exercise.

Bingo.

[DougB]

Nah, I don’t want to do that.

[dddave]

Dougb, I want to respect your opinion. But, from your reply I cannot tell where you really stand.

If reading complaints is not your thing (eg: If my wife asked me to go to knitting group with her, I would certain respond, "Nah, not my thing."), If that is the case you are man who knows personal his likes and and dislikes. And I admire you for that..

However, if you are saying that you read and respond to complaints, and your responses are replete with attacks on the poster (eg, "You idiot") ignoring the point being made,I suggest that you join a knitting group.

[Packer Fan]

Originally Posted by dewilson58

Bingo.

Actually, I love it when people label me a Nazi, a racist, and a homophobe when they can't debate the facts. Doesn't eveyone just love the name calling?

I wish we could have an actual debate on the facts and be civil without the namecalling too - hard to do these days.