I think we're all basically adults here, right? But just in case, let me start by saying that this thread is NOT about slamming anyone. It's just some advice...from the heart...for anyone...and someone.

I believe that when folks post in the forums, whether noobs or veterans, the majority of the community responds in a positive manner. Yeah, we have a terrible habit of going off topic. Hard not to with so many overactive, overly creative, and talented folks around, However, in general, it's usually with love or good natured.

Yeah, you have a few who will react to something or anything in a negative manner. Again, for the most part, it's never hostile or meant to be mean.

One of the hardest things is determining the posters 'tone' which can be in itself difficult when you haven't had a lot of experience with that particular poster. Words are always open to interpretation. I could call Doc a f***tard and he knows it's an endearing nic meant with love, whereas if I called skinhit a f***tard, he knows that I am generally still hoping he catches a bad case of scabies or something.

All of this said...I am not sure who has it harder sometimes. The original poster, being misinterpreted, misunderstood, misquoted, etc., or the person replying going through the same. (Perhaps the mods have it the hardest trying just to keep up with the damn conversation and making sure we're all good little smurfs and smurfettes)

What I do know for sure is that this community behaves like one big fat disfunctional family a lot of the time. A lot of disagreement, a lot of wild observations, a lot of varied opinions, and also a lot of genuine concern and affection...love...no matter how it seems the words are coming out. Tons of support and devotion and some of the fiercest loyalty I have ever experienced.

All of this brings me to my point. And this is for everyone.

If you take the time, if you have the need to start a thread, whether something frivilous for fun or you need help or whatever...I would offer this advice.

Expect the best. (Cause we are)

Expect the worst. (Because it takes all kinds and that's what makes life interesting)

Embrace both. (You'll be better for it)

And don't delete your thread. Don't have your thread deleted or removed or whatever  because you think it's served it's purpose or because the comments didn't go your way or because you just want it gone or whatever. It can always help someone else down the road, whether it's a good laugh or some understanding of the site, community, or some technical piece of info they have been looking for. Beside it possibly serving a purpose to someone...anyone down the road...it can also discourage folks from even posting in your threads. Especially folks that want to support you, help you, admire you/your work/your efforts, etc.  Please remember this.

So, to sum up..

Expect.

Embrace.

Preserve.

I'm done.

Let the flaming begin.