Dearest Susie123,
Though I am coming late into this thread, I will if I may, make the following observations.
If you have something to say that you think is worth saying, say it.
If you can illustrate or expand upon anothers' opinion, do so.
If you feel an overinflated ego requires a sharp word as a corrective, then pop it.
Let common sense and decency be your guide and you will not go far wrong.
But remember, you cannot hope to please all the people, all of the time, nor should you try to; that way lies madness and disappointment.
In the final analysis and at the end of the day, when all things are added up and the fat lady has warbled her silly head off, you are you. Your comments, quips, illustrations and opinions are uniquely yours and you have as much right to post them as anyone else.
By the same measure, anyone else has an equal right to criticise, belittle, satirise, ridicule or disagree with whatever you post. This is called give and take, and is a fundamental requirement of any democratically inspired debate.
If I disagree with something that you have posted I will say so and explain why. You then have the opportunity to defend your position by further explanation with the hope (usually forlorn - but that's half the fun) of changing my opinion. And so it goes on, back and forth, until one or other of us retires exhausted from the debate.
The value of a forum for debate lies in the ability it affords us to examine what we believe. It enables us to hone our skills in the marshalling of facts to support or challenge an argument and the use of language to express our line of thinking.
It would be a very poor debate indeed if any of us felt that we must self-censor for fear of causing offence; even though a certain amount of that is necessary if we are to remain within the law.
In short, if you feel that you are being targetted for unfair or discriminatory criticism you can always appeal to the moderators for guidance.
I hope this helps
