[Karin Wells]

I know that you're out there reading all of our postings. How about if you start a new thread in the intro. section regarding a POLICY ABOUT THE USE OF SCARCASM AND PUT-DOWNS? Everyone should be alerted to this potential problem and notify you asap if they spot this kind of thing in a post before you do.

I suggest that anytime someone posts something that even borders on the nasty, pull the post, and privately email the person who put it up. Give them the opportunity to reword their thoughts in a way that is beneficial to all.

I think that most scarcasm is the result of a passionately held belief. Sometimes someone pretends that - or maybe even really thinks that - they are "just being funny". But this causes hurt and is counterproductive to the growth of this unique forum.

I am really worried that some timid soul is lurking out there, reading the unpleasant exchanges posted above, and would never feel safe enough to express an idea or an opinion on this forum. We would all lose so much if this kind of thing is allowed to continue.

I would like to think that the person who mistakenly directs a put-down toward another person on this forum will be given an opportunity to express their thoughts and opinions in a way that benefits everyone.

What do you think?