Re: Re: Not all Surfacehippies are idiots!

[Guest guest]

I actually agree with what I interpret as your message, that some OS's are

informed and communicative and some are closed minded and ignorant. The

patient needs to discriminate and be an informed consumer. That's what we're

here to facilitate.

But then you state:

----- Original Message -----

> Testy verbal exchange is painless and the hallmark of a free and open

> society... so keep it up, y'all

I think you're wrong. People who visit this group are often suffering,

exhausted from chronic pain, and frightened. They are looking for

compassion, understanding, sympathy, knowledge and encouragement.

Your " testy verbal exchange " can suddenly become abusive and rude, leaving

no opportunity for a discussion that includes anyone unwilling to risk being

the object of verbal castigation. If one patient turns their back on a

better life because of exchanges like this it will be a shame.

The Internet is not an opportunity to participate in a verbal free for all.

Groups like Surface Hippie not only have written rules, they have customary

modes of behavior consistent with the goals and purpose of the group.

Controversy and discussion is one thing but calling people " twits " and

making other derisive statements is not acceptable.

I'm sure you, Joe (and others) can contribute valuable insights, opinions,

and knowledge to the Surface Hippie Group without the anger and criticism

that has charactorized this thread.

Mike Trautman

C2K, Kennedy, Sep 02

[Guest guest]

Hear! Hear! Well said, Mike! As a new member of this group, I found this thread

rather distressing. Fortunately, I had read enough postings that were helpful

and encouraging before I came to this exchange, that it did not color my overall

view of this group. For the other newbies here, stay tuned. It really is a

great bunch of people!

P.

Re: Re: Not all Surfacehippies are idiots!

I actually agree with what I interpret as your message, that some OS's are

informed and communicative and some are closed minded and ignorant. The

patient needs to discriminate and be an informed consumer. That's what we're

here to facilitate.

But then you state:

----- Original Message -----

> Testy verbal exchange is painless and the hallmark of a free and open

> society... so keep it up, y'all

I think you're wrong. People who visit this group are often suffering,

exhausted from chronic pain, and frightened. They are looking for

compassion, understanding, sympathy, knowledge and encouragement.

Your " testy verbal exchange " can suddenly become abusive and rude, leaving

no opportunity for a discussion that includes anyone unwilling to risk being

the object of verbal castigation. If one patient turns their back on a

better life because of exchanges like this it will be a shame.

The Internet is not an opportunity to participate in a verbal free for all.

Groups like Surface Hippie not only have written rules, they have customary

modes of behavior consistent with the goals and purpose of the group.

Controversy and discussion is one thing but calling people " twits " and

making other derisive statements is not acceptable.

I'm sure you, Joe (and others) can contribute valuable insights, opinions,

and knowledge to the Surface Hippie Group without the anger and criticism

that has charactorized this thread.

Mike Trautman

C2K, Kennedy, Sep 02

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