--- In FairfieldLife@yahoogroups.com, "Rick Archer" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > > I've been too busy to read much of FFL for the last couple of days, and I'm > missing out on some great threads. I just wanted to post an analogy that > expresses my attitude toward the issue of cordial speech and behavior. > > > > If you all were to come to FF we were to assemble for a party, perhaps in my > home, I'd expect all sorts of lively, heated discussions, debates, and even > arguments. It would make for a great party. But if people were to start > attacking one another personally, through insults or even fisticuffs, the > atmosphere of the party would be spoiled for all. Many would leave. > > > > I think of FFL as a friendly gathering place where all are welcome. It > provides a relaxed, open atmosphere where people can discuss anything freely > anonymously if they wish. That atmosphere is spoiled, just as a party > would be, if people cross a certain line of civility. I think most of us > know and generally can agree where that line is. > > > > Using this example makes it simple for me to distinguish appropriate from > inappropriate speech on FFL. I hope others find it useful. > Fyi, I saw someone scarfing all your spinach dip when you went on that last beer run...:-)