Respect

[markyj987]

I'm about to go off on a little tirade here. Now, let me place a disclaimer before I go on. NOTHING I am about to say is directed at any particular individual, view, or post in the despicable display of general disrespect towards fellow forum members over the last week.

If you did not already know, I am the one that suggested to Scott that we add "and Religion" to the name of the political room.

My reasoning behind the suggestion was simply this. (From my email to Scott):

"Since these discussions usually end up in the Political room anyway, what would you think about changing the room name to Politics and Religion?"

Needless to say, the level of venom I've witnessed as of late is really trying my patience. So, I'm about to lay it on the table. Keep in mind that this is MY opinion, not sanctioned by Scott or my fellow moderators.

Religious discussions have taken place in this room ever since I started coming here--and most certainly before. There HAS been a place for such discussions here--before this, it just hasn't been assigned to a room.

Those of you who are offended by the very idea of religious discussion--perhaps you're being oversensitive? I'm not talking about taking offense at being preached to--I can understand that. But to be offended by the very IDEA of religious DISCUSSION? That's absolutely ridiculous. When did this become a mandatory politically correct zone?

To my fellow Christians who want to share the gospel. As well-intentioned as you may be--the message it sends to many IS offensive and DOES tick them off. Members of my own family have angered me by giving me a list of "shoulds" and "shouldn'ts" followed by telling me they need to pray for my salvation--with never knowing what was in my heart. For most, that does nothing more than make them feel ostracized and judged by someone who has no right--based in Scripture or secular law--to do so.

Though I can see how some are offended on each side, the only thing that offends me is this. The word "offended." All of this whining by people who are mature enough to carry firearms in the woods really makes me question my safety when I hunt!

My suggestion is that many here need to grow a thicker skin--or learn to let some things roll off your backs.

If you dislike religion and have no interest in reading such a post, grow up and don't bash people of faith! If you're a Christian and feel someone may really need to hear Scripture or be advised on spiritual issues, don't call them out in public and single them out!

Oh, here's a novel idea for everyone. If you disagree with someone on an issue--have a CIVILIZED debate!

The main thing I want to address is how in less than a week, people have stopped showing respect for each other as human beings.

I leave you with this...

If you want to share the Word of the Lord, do so peacefully and without pride--without sounding like you have authority over people.

If you despise discussion of religion because you feel faith is a private thing--NOBODY is forcing you to say anything.

If you're an athiest and hate the discussion of religion because of that--you're not being forced to read anything.

If you worship shiny things--chances are you're under two years old. (But if you can read this--you're truly gifted!)

Though I keep dragging on, I have one last thing to say here. I will not jump on someone and yell at them for a passionate debate--that would negate the whole idea behind this room (in either the past or present form.) Going forward, I will NOT TOLERATE people personally attacking each other. This is worse than I've seen before.

Whew...now that I've had my tantrum by abusing my keyboard, I feel better.

[buckee]

Re: Respect

Geesh ...I'm almost afraid to say anything now ..LOL

One more thing I'd like to add. If you are going to ask a faith based question, don't be too surprised if you get a faith based response, that wasn't exactly the one you were looking for.

I do love you guys

[TreeStandBowHunter]

Re: Respect

Good post Marky. I agree too. Also may I add that when you read someones post, read it carefully before calling someone out or saying something that might bite you in the buttocks

That religion post that got locked up, got locked up because of the last few posts...one of them mine. But my post wasn't disrespecting anybody at all nor bashing anybody or jabbing at anybody either...it wasn't read carefully before being replied too, therefore causing someone to start thowing un-needed comments out there. That is what I am talking about.

Read the post before responding to it especially if you are going to go to the negative side. JMO

[robk]

Re: Respect

two things that should never go together and be spoken about is politics and religion. politics as can religion can cause some serious flak and mud slinging.

i believe it is the right of every person to believe in god in the manner they see fit and as for politics i keep it to myself as i am not one to step on anothers political choices.

i do believe the usa was founded on god and country and it is how it should be today instead of coddeling the few who take offense to having prayer in school or pleadging of allegiance to the flag.

this is how america was founded and i believe we have short changed ourselves by trying to become politically correct. there should be time for each in school to pray and whatever they do while in church or at their home

i also believe that we as a people owe it to ourselves to keep god in our every day life and one our currencey and it should legal to have whatever in a court room or judges office and even on the outer bricks of he buildings

my take on all of this

rob k

[johnf]

Re: Respect

I find myself looking back at my post and wandering if I've gone too far. My intent is never to belittle or put anyone down, it is to educate. Though sometimes I may have gone over the edge. If I have offended, I appoligies. If something I have said has convicted you, then I rejoice.

[Nut]

Re: Respect

I pretty much ignore any religious posts on the internet. Nothing here can change my way of believing or what happens between God and I.

Same thing with Politics. But is sure is funny on how some believe in their political tirades posted here

[wtnhunt]

Re: Respect

Great post Mark. Have to also agree with what Mike says. Try to read and understand a post before replying to it in a negative way.

[Gator]

Re: Respect

Good post marky. I'm sure I didn't help the cause either on that one religious post, but in my defense, I never called anyone out, until I was called out.

The one good thing about the forums, if I or you don't want to read it, guess what, you don't have to!

[ParrotHead]

Re: Respect

Let me just add my 2 bits worth.

I disagree with the decission on adding religion to the political boards - they are two totally different subject and most of the time draw two totally different crowds - but it's been add'd so if you want to talk about it, your free to.

But I ask that you remember Article II of the Bill of No Rights as it states - "You do not have the right to never be offended. This country is based on freedom, and that means freedom for everyone -- not just you! You may leave the room, turn the channel, express a different opinion, etc., but the world is full of idiots, and probably always will be."

And if you fully intend on discussing either of these two taboo topics - leave your feelings outside because if you bring 'em here, they're probably going to get hurt.

PH

[Guest KSNimrod]

Re: Respect

[ QUOTE ]

My suggestion is that many here need to grow a thicker skin--or learn to let some things roll off your backs.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well said. I'll do my best to take it to heart. My apologies.