Hi Happyflowergirl -

Being on a website such as this is tough. I use to say to my employees who service customers on the phone/email to be cognizant that their customers can't see their face, or if on email can't hear their voice. So, it's real easy for people to "read" into someone's attitude on an email.

One woman I work with would type all in CAPS - I knew that she didn't think she was doing anything, but alot of people thinks that it means you're yelling. When I told her she didn't know it so she changed it.

Now add to this a website where everyone is dealing with some sort of mental health condition, meds., etc. and you've got quite the pot brewing.

When I respond to people, if I think it may sound harsh or they may take it harsh, I always preface with the fact that I care and I'm just making a suggestion and I hope they aren't offended.

I had someone PM me once that said something that really set me off, BUT they also admitted they may not say things right all the time. I was glad they added that, because then I was able to respond and say I wasn't offended and continue the converstation.

There are also other times where I realllllyyyyy want to post a response that I know will only satisfy me and not help the person. Those posts I don't send or, if I type the whole thing I hit my back key.

Tranquility