This post is made with thought and care. I care about this community and the people here. Somewhere else I briefly visited long ago had what was called “rules of engagement” - things to think about before posting, especially if we are feeling particularly distressed, for whatever reason.

Thank you to Rohag and little turtle, Bill3, Thirty Shades and many others who have modelled respect and kindness to all for a long time. I think long term members deserve special kudos and appreciation. I offer you all my deep respect and caring thoughts.

These are reminders for me as well
They are just my opinion... feel free to disagree (if you must..)

1. When replying to a post, especially if someone is depressed/anxious/in emotional pain..
If you don’t have something supportive to say (or hugs) then don’t bother replying.

If you’re feeling particularly distressed or angry I suggest taking time before replying and not making what some therapists might less than kindly describe as a “knee jerk post” - especially if you’re the first responder.

I have occasionally been “trolled” by random fly by posters who obviously put no thought into their post.. unless they were just wanting to take their anger out on someone. Not cool.... and it can be hurtful. Receiving a negative and thoughtless
post, especially as the first reply. I regret if I have ever done this (I hope not). I don’t make a log of all my posts or others posts though since I have plenty to do outside of this forum.....


Most people are doing the best they can. And that is good enough.

I think almost everyone here has an inner voice which insists .... negative things.... so nobody wants to lash out at others and possibly hurt them. Being sensitive is not a flaw, if used for good it can be a strength... imho.

Respect and peace to all