Happy Atheist Forum

Operations Desk => Forum Suggestions & Announcements => Topic started by: Tank on May 01, 2012, 01:11:49 PM

Title: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 01, 2012, 01:11:49 PM
Just calibrating my behaviour to expectations.

I see the role of forum staff in two areas.

Mechanistic

Just keeping the forum running. Deleting spammer posts and accounts. Merging duplicate threads. Splitting derailments. Deleting duplicate posts etc.

Moderation

Implementing the forum rules and thus maintaining the 'feel' of the forum as a whole.

Have I missed anything?
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: OldGit on May 01, 2012, 01:15:25 PM
Starting lots of interesting threads.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 01, 2012, 01:18:52 PM
Quote from: OldGit on May 01, 2012, 01:15:25 PM
Starting lots of interesting threads.
I hope you're not implying that I start uninteresting threads  >:(  ;)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 01, 2012, 01:21:54 PM
Quote from: OldGit on May 01, 2012, 01:15:25 PM
Starting lots of interesting threads.
Seriously. All members can start threads and fortunately do. I wouldn't put any higher expectations on staff than members in that respect. In fact I think non-staff have more time to start threads (interesting or otherwise) as they aren't pratting around squashing spammers. But only a marginal difference.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: OldGit on May 01, 2012, 01:41:42 PM
It was a compliment  ;).  Seriously, I think you do a grand job; you balance friendliness and authority very well.  Also you do start some interesting threads.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 01, 2012, 01:45:25 PM
Quote from: OldGit on May 01, 2012, 01:41:42 PM
It was a compliment  ;).  Seriously, I think you do a grand job; you balance friendliness and authority very well.  Also you do start some interesting threads.
Thank you. So by definition my behaviour meets/exceeds your exceptions as a forum user/member. That's good.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Buddy on May 01, 2012, 01:48:55 PM
I think you guys do an awesome job with this forum. And unlike a lot of other forums I have been on, you guys interact with the members. I really like that. :)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 01, 2012, 01:54:01 PM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on May 01, 2012, 01:48:55 PM
I think you guys do an awesome job with this forum. And unlike a lot of other forums I have been on, you guys interact with the members. I really like that. :)

Interesting. You add a new point 'interaction'. Now I assume you mean interaction as in taking part in discussions as a member not just as staff/moderation? Or do you mean we're friendly? So am I right in saying that you have had expectations that staff do not interact with members?
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Buddy on May 01, 2012, 02:13:52 PM
Quote from: Tank on May 01, 2012, 01:54:01 PM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on May 01, 2012, 01:48:55 PM
I think you guys do an awesome job with this forum. And unlike a lot of other forums I have been on, you guys interact with the members. I really like that. :)

Interesting. You add a new point 'interaction'. Now I assume you mean interaction as in taking part in discussions as a member not just as staff/moderation? Or do you mean we're friendly? So am I right in saying that you have had expectations that staff do not interact with members?

What I meant with interact was that the moderators not only participate in discussions, but do so in a friendly manor. With the other forums that I mentioned, the majority of mods seemed cold and unapproachable.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ali on May 01, 2012, 02:21:22 PM
I think you guys do a great job.  The only rule I'm confused about is the "no preaching" rule.  I get it in theory, but I think that it also tends to squash any sort of debate we might have with theists (sometimes fun to debate with people who disagree) because if they go back to "well the bible says..." that typically gets called out as preaching.  But realistically, if a theist is going to defend a religious position, it's hard to do so without "preaching." 

On the other hand, I think that as a mod it's your job to uphold the rules that admin (Whitney) has set for her site, so since "No preaching" is a rule, you're right to uphold it.

Anyway, I think I'm rambling.  I think you all do a fine job.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: The Magic Pudding on May 01, 2012, 02:31:09 PM
Lots of people come here and say they like the atmosphere, I do anyway. 
I think the balance of nurturing the community and keeping order is excellent.
Being helpful when you can, not seeming to enjoy using the mod hammer.
Enthusiasm for the forum helps and an appreciation for a stylish hat.
I'm glad you're not perfect though, that would be really annoying.  :)

Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: McQ on May 01, 2012, 02:52:17 PM
Quote from: Ali on May 01, 2012, 02:21:22 PM
I think you guys do a great job.  The only rule I'm confused about is the "no preaching" rule.  I get it in theory, but I think that it also tends to squash any sort of debate we might have with theists (sometimes fun to debate with people who disagree) because if they go back to "well the bible says..." that typically gets called out as preaching.  But realistically, if a theist is going to defend a religious position, it's hard to do so without "preaching." 

On the other hand, I think that as a mod it's your job to uphold the rules that admin (Whitney) has set for her site, so since "No preaching" is a rule, you're right to uphold it.

Anyway, I think I'm rambling.  I think you all do a fine job.

Ramble away! No, you're not rambling at all. This is one of the areas I think about a lot and I think it's one of the more difficult to moderate. Glad you bring it up!

Over the years, I've tried to steer away from participation in threads that I think will devolve into pure preaching, simply because those are threads that tend to really tick me off. I tend to simply moderate them. The problem for me comes when I don't agree with other members or mods on when the line is crossed into preaching. It's really difficult to come to a consensus on what preaching is sometimes. It depends on the thread, the member's history of preaching or not, their intent or perceived intent, and quite honestly, our mood at the time we see it! Often we have to take a step back and wait before deciding something is preaching.

Fortunately, we have a good moderator discussion area where we can talk and work out how to handle those times. And the variety of personality and backgrounds of mods is so helpful. Worldwide perspective, genuinely diverse areas of expertise, etc...really helpful when discussing issues.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on May 01, 2012, 03:25:25 PM
I think the moderation team here does a great job! Personally, I am very happy. Tank, I'm glad that you contribute to the forum on a personal level. I think the community would suffer if you didn't. I realize that it must be a difficult thing to balance for you.

As for the "no preaching" rule, I'm kind of a fan. I agree that it's hard to know where the line is, but, honestly, I think it ties into the civility rules here. If someone comes in and says "You are sinners. You need Jesus." It's much easier to ban them for preaching than it is to ban them for being uncivil - because even though WE consider calling us all sinners uncivil, to them, it's just fact. You know what I mean? I think we'd have a lot more theists crying martyrdom if we removed the no preaching rule and we had to start banning their preachy behaviour as being uncivilized.

One thing we could do, however, is maybe start a "complaints" forum? One of the other forums I used to frequent had one. That way if anyone has an issue with a particular case of moderation or rule enforcement, they could take it to the forum and there'd be a designated spot to discuss their grievances without cluttering up the rest of the threads. Just an idea.

Overall, I think this is the best moderated forum I've ever participated in :) 
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 01, 2012, 04:04:51 PM
Quote from: Ali on May 01, 2012, 02:21:22 PM
I think you guys do a great job.  The only rule I'm confused about is the "no preaching" rule.  I get it in theory, but I think that it also tends to squash any sort of debate we might have with theists (sometimes fun to debate with people who disagree) because if they go back to "well the bible says..." that typically gets called out as preaching.  But realistically, if a theist is going to defend a religious position, it's hard to do so without "preaching." 

On the other hand, I think that as a mod it's your job to uphold the rules that admin (Whitney) has set for her site, so since "No preaching" is a rule, you're right to uphold it.

Anyway, I think I'm rambling.  I think you all do a fine job.
The 'no preaching' rule is a difficult, but unfortunately necessary one, required on atheist web sites. There are a small number of highly vocal evangelical types who will spam atheist forums with scripture. That's really what the rule is there to prevent.

One can quote from one's holy book to explain the reasoning behind why 'such-and-such' is done or has happened. One could say 'I don't eat shellfish because it says so here chapter:verse.' But to assert 'One must not eat shellfish because it say so here chapter:verse.' is preaching ie using a holy book of unqualified provenance to support an assertion. Another example would be copy pasting tracts from a holy book with no valid reason for doing so.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 01, 2012, 04:14:15 PM
Quote from: The Magic Pudding on May 01, 2012, 02:31:09 PM
Lots of people come here and say they like the atmosphere, I do anyway. 
I think the balance of nurturing the community and keeping order is excellent.
Being helpful when you can, not seeming to enjoy using the mod hammer.
Enthusiasm for the forum helps and an appreciation for a stylish hat.
I'm glad you're not perfect though, that would be really annoying.  :)
I shall endeavour to continue to be creatively imperfect, while still appreciating hats.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 01, 2012, 04:22:37 PM
Quote from: DeterminedJuliet on May 01, 2012, 03:25:25 PM
One thing we could do, however, is maybe start a "complaints" forum? One of the other forums I used to frequent had one. That way if anyone has an issue with a particular case of moderation or rule enforcement, they could take it to the forum and there'd be a designated spot to discuss their grievances without cluttering up the rest of the threads. Just an idea.
I am active on forums that have dedicated discussion areas like that. On here one could use the Forum Suggestions area for just that purpose. I think we are (all the membership and staff) are mature enough to do that.

Personally I think it's much better to deal with that sort of issue via PM. On a big forum a public complaints area can generate a serious 'us and them' divide between the members and staff. Once battle lines are drawn all hell breaks lose. That's one of the things that contributed to the downfall of Richard Dawkins original forum.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on May 01, 2012, 04:26:24 PM
Quote from: Tank on May 01, 2012, 04:22:37 PM
Personally I think it's much better to deal with that sort of issue via PM. On a big forum a public complaints area can generate a serious 'us and them' divide between the members and staff. Once battle lines are drawn all hell breaks lose. That's one of the things that contributed to the downfall of Richard Dawkins original forum.

That's a good point. In a lot of other places the mod team does tend to get vilified by at least some of the members.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ali on May 01, 2012, 04:29:26 PM
Well, all in all I think that you guys do a lovely job.  I agree that the level of personal interaction that the mods bring to the forum is a wonderful addition and makes this forum a cuddly warm place to be.  I definitely consider this to be my "home" on the internet.   ;D
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: En_Route on May 01, 2012, 04:38:27 PM
You do an excellent job, not least in ensuring new members are swiftly made to feel at home.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: ThinkAnarchy on May 01, 2012, 05:46:31 PM
Quote from: Ali on May 01, 2012, 02:21:22 PM
I think you guys do a great job.  The only rule I'm confused about is the "no preaching" rule.  I get it in theory, but I think that it also tends to squash any sort of debate we might have with theists (sometimes fun to debate with people who disagree) because if they go back to "well the bible says..." that typically gets called out as preaching.  But realistically, if a theist is going to defend a religious position, it's hard to do so without "preaching."  

On the other hand, I think that as a mod it's your job to uphold the rules that admin (Whitney) has set for her site, so since "No preaching" is a rule, you're right to uphold it.

Anyway, I think I'm rambling.  I think you all do a fine job.

I agree with this.

Not to mention the "preaching" rule is why Egor hates us.  ;D

Other than that, I think the mods here to a great job and that issue is more a problem I have with the rules and the moderators doing a poor job.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: hismikeness on May 01, 2012, 06:46:32 PM
What do I want from the moderating team? How about secret allegiances and deception!

In all seriousness, perhaps the mark of good modding is when it makes itself known when necessary and is otherwise inconspicuous. I like the red font for serious messages, and the consistency with which the rules are upheld. Bravo.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Siz on May 01, 2012, 09:20:07 PM
I think you all balance the mod/interaction equation well. It really does give the place a homely feel to have our hosts serving tea and biccies at regular intervals by way of your personal input.

However, reluctant as I am to highlight fault among all the good stuff you do, you did ask...

The reason I'll mark you one asterisk-point short of an A* is because I've been slapped with the red pen of shame on a couple of occasions (by different mods) seemingly for holding a disagreeable political view.
Now, I know I'm probably slightly right-of-centre, which makes me look like Hitler compared to some of you guys, and I do feel like my politics are being moderated. I've always understood your reasons for employing the red pen - I accept that the forum is your baby and you're trying to take it in a certain direction, which is why I've held my tongue (and whilst being a guest in your house I'll heed the red pen) - but I don't wholly accept that political partiality is within the remit of the Mod. On each occasion a slap from a Mod with their 'members' hat on would have been more appropriate. If it's a personal view it should be expressed as such.

I do believe this place can benefit from some balance to the often nauseating and sterile leftism that prevails. I accept that I'm a little isolated on this issue, but I'm still a Happy Atheist, an I do love it here!
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: ThinkAnarchy on May 01, 2012, 09:27:18 PM
^^^ Are you sure it's because of your political lean? My views are considered extreme by most, and the only times I've been moderated is when someone really pissed me off and I've insulted them. I just find it hard to believe that the token anarchist wouldn't have experienced this kind of treatment if it were occurring. That is all.

Than again, on many issues, my views parallel those of liberals.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 01, 2012, 09:29:49 PM
^^^ Interesting points Siz. I am disappointed you feel that way. I would hope political opinions stated in an impersonal manner should not cause problems.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ali on May 01, 2012, 10:06:30 PM
Quote from: Scissorlegs on May 01, 2012, 09:20:07 PM
the often nauseating and sterile leftism that prevails.

If I recall, it was stuff like this that got you modded more so than your disagreement with lefty ideals.  Calling someone's ideology "nauseating" is kind of rude, tbh. 
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: xSilverPhinx on May 01, 2012, 10:54:52 PM
Pftt. Everybody knows that the 'no preaching' rule is there so we can persecute the ones who do ;)

Anyways, I have no complaints about the mods, I don't think I've ever seen a forum that was so well moderated in fact. ???

Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Siz on May 01, 2012, 10:55:13 PM
Quote from: ThinkAnarchy on May 01, 2012, 09:27:18 PM
^^^ Are you sure it's because of your political lean? My views are considered extreme by most, and the only times I've been moderated is when someone really pissed me off and I've insulted them. I just find it hard to believe that the token anarchist wouldn't have experienced this kind of treatment if it were occurring. That is all.

Than again, on many issues, my views parallel those of liberals.

It appears that Conservatism is more abhorrent than Anarchism :D

I have to admit that in both instances dramatic language was used to make a point which was seen as 'generally' (but not personally) insulting. I may have been overzealous with the language, but the whole point of my posts IS inherently insulting to some. I'm trying to highlight the necessity of facing harsh truths when trying fix a problem. That's my opinion informed from a pragmatic political ideal. I cannot apologise for that.

But it's really not a big issue in the grander scheme of the forum. I'm more moderated by peer pressure than the red pen. You bleeding-heart liberals never fail to shout me down when I suggest something that, while directly addressing a given problem, steps on someone's toes.
I'm trying to make an omlete, and noone is prepared to forego the eggs.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ali on May 01, 2012, 10:59:11 PM
Quote from: Scissorlegs on May 01, 2012, 10:55:13 PM
You bleeding-heart liberals never fail to shout me down when I suggest something that, while directly addressing a given problem, steps on someone's toes.
I'm trying to make an omlete, and noone is prepared to forego the eggs.

rrrrrrrrRRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Sorry, I'm in a very silly mood at the moment.  Probably all of the blood lost from my heart... ;D ;D ;D

In fairness Scissorlegs, I actually like that you have a dissenting opinion on a lot of things.  Sitting around agreeing with people gets boring after a while.  It's just that you don't always make it clear that you respect your opponents' clearly superior opinions and arguments....*smirk* ;D
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Siz on May 01, 2012, 11:55:37 PM
Quote from: Ali on May 01, 2012, 10:59:11 PM
Quote from: Scissorlegs on May 01, 2012, 10:55:13 PM
You bleeding-heart liberals never fail to shout me down when I suggest something that, while directly addressing a given problem, steps on someone's toes.
I'm trying to make an omlete, and noone is prepared to forego the eggs.

rrrrrrrrRRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Sorry, I'm in a very silly mood at the moment.  Probably all of the blood lost from my heart... ;D ;D ;D

In fairness Scissorlegs, I actually like that you have a dissenting opinion on a lot of things.  Sitting around agreeing with people gets boring after a while.  It's just that you don't always make it clear that you respect your opponents' clearly superior opinions and arguments....*smirk* ;D
Well, you haven't left me with much room for an insult there, so I'll come back with my favourite, unchallengable playground riposte: "No, you are!"
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: The Magic Pudding on May 02, 2012, 01:02:44 AM
Quote from: Scissorlegs on May 01, 2012, 10:55:13 PMYou bleeding-heart liberals never fail to shout me down when I suggest something that, while directly addressing a given problem, steps on someone's toes.

Don't worry about your suggestions stepping on our lefty toes, your arguments have no weight so we hardly notice.  ;D ;) :) :-*
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: McQ on May 02, 2012, 01:53:11 AM
At this point, I'll say thanks to everyone for the feedback as well as the support. It's a great forum, but that's just the varied and interesting membership being able to intelligently express themselves, often with excellent humor.

I do have to also give some support to scissorlegs too. People need to remember that atheism is not a political party, nor does it belong just to those on the left. Thinking as much is way too simplistic, since every person is different and their isn't one size to fit all atheists.

And to be frank, over the years I've seen some really asinine presumptive attacks by liberals against conservatives on this forum - things that would have had members crying and calling for bans if they had been aimed in the other direction. So no one is squeaky clean on this issue.

We just need to keep it civil for everyone.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Amicale on May 03, 2012, 01:41:13 AM
HAF is a great forum, and it's both the mods and the members that make it great -- but overall, the atmosphere of this place, the way the mods here work so hard to keep everything in order, the way the mods interact on a friendly basis with the members, and the way the mods are very approachable are all reasons I really appreciate the moderation style here. I know a lot of very hard work has gone into this place. Besides banning spammers and upholding the peace, vast amounts of time are spent moving stuff around to keep threads in order, to deal with derails, etc... and that all contributes to the forum being very easy to read and participate on.

Also, I genuinely appreciate how much the mods care about maintaining an atmosphere of respect here. The couple of times I've been called out, I appreciated it, because I'm as capable of going off the handle as anyone else. As others have said, we're all over the map (geographically, politically, life experiences etc), and the diversity within our membership is great. Issues will always come up from time to time where we'll disagree, but I genuinely appreciate the fact that I've never seen any knock-down, drag-out fights among the regular members here. If we disagree and a fight breaks out, I really LIKE it that we can be told to knock it off, and then continue on as usual. HAF just strikes me as the kind of place where all of us would be happy hanging out together for coffee or a drink, if we could do so in person.

I think my favourite thing about you folks (mods) is how approachable and welcoming you all are. The example you set just seems to naturally sift down to the membership, and the friendly community tone of this place really seems to attract people who are looking for just that, friendship and community.

I'm very happy to consider this my home on the web. :)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tom62 on May 03, 2012, 05:24:57 AM
Many thanks from me as well, for the feedback and support. HAF is a fun place to be and that is the way we would like to keep it. As a "techie" I'm not so much of a "people's" person, which basically means that I'm more into deleting spammers than into moderating threads. Luckily we have some great staff members here on board, who are far better in "extrapolating" human interactions than I am  ;D.

Scissorlegs has my full support as well. Atheism is not a political party and it belongs to everybody.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Crow on May 24, 2012, 01:05:49 AM
My only criticism would be the same as what Scissorlegs has suggested. There have been times when mods have just put there foot down before people have had the opportunity to argue or support it because it was controversial or caused conflict between a lay member or mod. Though I don't remember reading anything that got scissorlegs warned with mod font.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on May 24, 2012, 01:30:34 AM
No complaints from The Grayness. Many a spammer, troll and hit and runner are now in The Gray Cauldron being boiled in His honor.  :D

Also, the mod coverage seems ok with at least one mod being online most of the time the forum is active.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 24, 2012, 12:03:20 PM
Quote from: Crow on May 24, 2012, 01:05:49 AM
My only criticism would be the same as what Scissorlegs has suggested. There have been times when mods have just put there foot down before people have had the opportunity to argue or support it because it was controversial or caused conflict between a lay member or mod. Though I don't remember reading anything that got scissorlegs warned with mod font.
It's a fine line and I do tend to stomp very close to the edge. Mainly because I've seen what goes on at other places if arseholes get the upper hand. They don't just do direct damage by insulting people they can bring down the whole tone of the place and then, for want of a better term, 'the gentler souls', leave and don't come back and then it becomes a fight between the arseholes and the remaining thicker skinned members which can end up in a downward spiral leading to the demise of the forum.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Crow on May 24, 2012, 05:11:27 PM
Quote from: Tank on May 24, 2012, 12:03:20 PM
Quote from: Crow on May 24, 2012, 01:05:49 AM
My only criticism would be the same as what Scissorlegs has suggested. There have been times when mods have just put there foot down before people have had the opportunity to argue or support it because it was controversial or caused conflict between a lay member or mod. Though I don't remember reading anything that got scissorlegs warned with mod font.
It's a fine line and I do tend to stomp very close to the edge. Mainly because I've seen what goes on at other places if arseholes get the upper hand. They don't just do direct damage by insulting people they can bring down the whole tone of the place and then, for want of a better term, 'the gentler souls', leave and don't come back and then it becomes a fight between the arseholes and the remaining thicker skinned members which can end up in a downward spiral leading to the demise of the forum.

Very true. To be honest I would be the worst mod in the world and do not think or would want to try and do better as I know I couldn't. It is only a very small comment on a largely very good job, which you do not get paid for and must take up vast amounts of time.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: OldGit on May 24, 2012, 05:16:42 PM
Well, I've no complaints.  I know forums which are much more rumbustious, but I never enjoyed them the same.  I know one which is so closely-controlled it's positively stifling; that place I'm fond of, but not for that aspect of it.

The mods here do an excellent job and are very approachable.  Especially nowadays.  More power to their elbows.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 24, 2012, 05:17:33 PM
Quote from: Crow on May 24, 2012, 05:11:27 PM
Quote from: Tank on May 24, 2012, 12:03:20 PM
Quote from: Crow on May 24, 2012, 01:05:49 AM
My only criticism would be the same as what Scissorlegs has suggested. There have been times when mods have just put there foot down before people have had the opportunity to argue or support it because it was controversial or caused conflict between a lay member or mod. Though I don't remember reading anything that got scissorlegs warned with mod font.
It's a fine line and I do tend to stomp very close to the edge. Mainly because I've seen what goes on at other places if arseholes get the upper hand. They don't just do direct damage by insulting people they can bring down the whole tone of the place and then, for want of a better term, 'the gentler souls', leave and don't come back and then it becomes a fight between the arseholes and the remaining thicker skinned members which can end up in a downward spiral leading to the demise of the forum.


Very true. To be honest I would be the worst mod in the world and do not think or would want to try and do better as I know I couldn't. It is only a very small comment on a largely very good job, which you do not get paid for and must take up vast amounts of time.
Fortunately this place is running quite smoothly. The only real time spent is killing off the spammer accounts and that probably take 2x10 minute session a day at most. And skim reading the posts to make sure a flame war hasn't broken out and I'd read all the posts anyway so fortunately this place isn't much of an overhead on my time at all. The other mods ban spammers as well so all I have to do is delete their accounts so they don't slow the server down.  
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on May 24, 2012, 06:26:26 PM
I'm glad you're relatively tolerant of derails.  ;D
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on May 24, 2012, 06:30:50 PM
Quote from: DeterminedJuliet on May 24, 2012, 06:26:26 PM
I'm glad you're relatively tolerant of derails.  ;D
There wouldn't be a forum if we weren't  ;D
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Stevil on May 24, 2012, 09:07:28 PM
Quote from: DeterminedJuliet on May 24, 2012, 06:26:26 PM
I'm glad you're relatively tolerant of derails.  ;D
Conversations are organic and naturally change direction, sticking rigidly to topic kills conversation
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on May 24, 2012, 09:09:54 PM
Quote from: Stevil on May 24, 2012, 09:07:28 PM
Quote from: DeterminedJuliet on May 24, 2012, 06:26:26 PM
I'm glad you're relatively tolerant of derails.  ;D
Conversations are organic and naturally change direction, sticking rigidly to topic kills conversation
Not to mention contradicts The Book of Asmoism.  >:(
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: OldGit on May 24, 2012, 09:14:30 PM
Derail proceeding quite nicely here.  (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi647.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fuu198%2FRamblingSyd%2Fofftopic.gif&hash=238e1455094a2c0a1a5aff9d32e4667bae505e37)

Can you give me the ISBN number of your gospel, Asmo?

(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi647.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fuu198%2FRamblingSyd%2Fthreadjacked.gif&hash=3d35cd9161d39db24d18bf88cbf6fd0b44ca7409)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on May 24, 2012, 09:21:13 PM
Quote from: Stevil on May 24, 2012, 09:07:28 PM
Quote from: DeterminedJuliet on May 24, 2012, 06:26:26 PM
I'm glad you're relatively tolerant of derails.  ;D
Conversations are organic and naturally change direction, sticking rigidly to topic kills conversation

I agree, though I've been on some forums that seem to do this.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on May 24, 2012, 10:20:13 PM
Quote from: OldGit on May 24, 2012, 09:14:30 PM
Derail proceeding quite nicely here.  (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi647.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fuu198%2FRamblingSyd%2Fofftopic.gif&hash=238e1455094a2c0a1a5aff9d32e4667bae505e37)

Can you give me the ISBN number of your gospel, Asmo?

(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi647.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fuu198%2FRamblingSyd%2Fthreadjacked.gif&hash=3d35cd9161d39db24d18bf88cbf6fd0b44ca7409)
Ah, but you see, it is not being sold for money. That is another thing that goes against the good book. There are passages floating around HAF though.  ;D

(Actually, there is only one - I only post them when it is called for)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Siz on May 24, 2012, 10:25:41 PM
Quote from: Crow on May 24, 2012, 01:05:49 AMThough I don't remember reading anything that got scissorlegs warned with mod font.

One was about fatties, the other was for calling the liberals on their bleating...

Go figure...!

Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on May 24, 2012, 10:27:22 PM
The weird thing is that The Asmo, in his infinite Asmoness, has managed to avoid mod-red in His comments.

The lines we walk...
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: technolud on May 25, 2012, 01:00:32 AM
There are moderators on the forum?  And you can make things appear and disappear?  Move them to other threads?  Make things red?  You must be GODS!  Do you live in the sky?
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on May 25, 2012, 01:06:07 AM
Quote from: technolud on May 25, 2012, 01:00:32 AM
There are moderators on the forum?  And you can make things appear and disappear?  Move them to other threads?  Make things red?  You must be GODS!  Do you live in the sky?
Yes, there is a passage in The Book of Asmoism about that.

You see, the mods, they live in the sky, mortal members live on land and The Asmokin dwell in the clay beneath. There is also supposed to be The Realm of Everpudding somewhere, but that's only been hypotesised so far. In any case, the mods are good and just and has wings and hammers. They are Whitney's minions. The Asmokin are the evil minions of His Infernal Grayness and it is theorised that they are plotting Galactic Domination and that if successful, everything in existence will resemble The Gray Realm...

... Or so the story goes.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: The Magic Pudding on May 25, 2012, 03:53:48 AM
Quote from: Scissorlegs on May 24, 2012, 10:25:41 PM
One was about fatties, the other was for calling the liberals on their bleating...

Oh I resent that, it is well known that conservatives are the fat ones.  :P
And that bleating thing, you shamelessly compare our speech to other creatures you feed upon.

(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft3.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcReA9BghsZ_z2DiAIWYD6fa527rbdOr-8xRVdxICYsluMm4KcTs2HvQuHo&hash=d81ae0bd8d52180556c0dfd4f36723b99baaa116) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcSwuLLvuIDXq9mCfntsI6smF-8X_qYQ_MqNVVki4tutMq0YGreJzku7U3U&hash=4024fc3dbb2d500a713c95b6fc54967538c6aca8) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcT6uRZNx-2SCqTqGrK4od3NRvSfjbrnYh0IN0IhiUCDC4A4hIYEvygIRv8&hash=2e63060fadb03674946a7e0c51361b460aa5dbcd) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft3.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcQH6YybFnSBRoKqZ5sFbN_FkqQsPh-TxdgeRkujjNxPDKqd_URrszhY2Fk&hash=57a0bc8be7981a35d01ce3639b3aa011e6529765) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcRWbTN5_BhHBesEpPVwrGSZSdmQE51GHXqNyUxjUA6vlFsfwbjkSjQ1WT8&hash=7efaf86be3095903ac80ba6768bd2fa22bdee48b) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft3.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcQjwvRgZRVTuFHoQTY-hiv32AB3ndQYihdMZGy83Q_huydZsU8QZ1lAEA&hash=bf5f0af91d4040650a13e1e002b31e9ee1b2faa4) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft1.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcQ-IdoQZLHmbBNzJYaSgEtVrQ7CDE88SRh52OMQuAtrZwU7FQm7yMRCih8&hash=5f7243cf6a61525061475d6c143bca2b584c1c50) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcSMZa73fLc9Arb__RblF4Dluwmnk9l1iak0nZykO5D7rRPLVOnUxLW9mw&hash=9fdf717c4a7ee8f334dee5caf5d387ee07fe1873) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcSkkHYg5RZVZWrHDj4ChQLcxhiYHiWNyEyDvOWXZrM0QQiIdfS7HpQS-3c&hash=c5511da7ff6faffe6c97fdaad977a91e95267770)


QuoteWhat do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?

I wouldn't mind a nice cup of tea now and then but if you're going to use a tea bag don't bother.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: technolud on May 25, 2012, 06:05:04 AM
QuoteYes, there is a passage in The Book of Asmoism about that.

You see, the mods, they live in the sky, mortal members live on land and The Asmokin dwell in the clay beneath. There is also supposed to be The Realm of Everpudding somewhere, but that's only been hypotesised so far. In any case, the mods are good and just and has wings and hammers. They are Whitney's minions. The Asmokin are the evil minions of His Infernal Grayness and it is theorised that they are plotting Galactic Domination and that if successful, everything in existence will resemble The Gray Realm...

Well, its apparent someone has a pretty high (low?) opinion of himself.

On a more serious note, Tank has been quite helpful to me a couple of times when I couldn't figure out how to do stuff (insert pics, etc).  Really is like someone from the sky reaching down.  Way cool.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on May 25, 2012, 01:09:50 PM
Quote from: technolud on May 25, 2012, 06:05:04 AM
On a more serious note, Tank has been quite helpful to me a couple of times when I couldn't figure out how to do stuff (insert pics, etc).  Really is like someone from the sky reaching down.  Way cool.
Ah, but The Asmo is helpful!  :-\

You might need to cut a deal with Him first, but he answers prayers... Occasionally... He DOES!  :-\
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ali on May 25, 2012, 06:17:26 PM
Quote from: The Magic Pudding on May 25, 2012, 03:53:48 AM
Quote from: Scissorlegs on May 24, 2012, 10:25:41 PM
One was about fatties, the other was for calling the liberals on their bleating...

Oh I resent that, it is well known that conservatives are the fat ones.  :P
And that bleating thing, you shamelessly compare our speech to other creatures you feed upon.

(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft3.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcReA9BghsZ_z2DiAIWYD6fa527rbdOr-8xRVdxICYsluMm4KcTs2HvQuHo&hash=d81ae0bd8d52180556c0dfd4f36723b99baaa116) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcSwuLLvuIDXq9mCfntsI6smF-8X_qYQ_MqNVVki4tutMq0YGreJzku7U3U&hash=4024fc3dbb2d500a713c95b6fc54967538c6aca8) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcT6uRZNx-2SCqTqGrK4od3NRvSfjbrnYh0IN0IhiUCDC4A4hIYEvygIRv8&hash=2e63060fadb03674946a7e0c51361b460aa5dbcd) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft3.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcQH6YybFnSBRoKqZ5sFbN_FkqQsPh-TxdgeRkujjNxPDKqd_URrszhY2Fk&hash=57a0bc8be7981a35d01ce3639b3aa011e6529765) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcRWbTN5_BhHBesEpPVwrGSZSdmQE51GHXqNyUxjUA6vlFsfwbjkSjQ1WT8&hash=7efaf86be3095903ac80ba6768bd2fa22bdee48b) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft3.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcQjwvRgZRVTuFHoQTY-hiv32AB3ndQYihdMZGy83Q_huydZsU8QZ1lAEA&hash=bf5f0af91d4040650a13e1e002b31e9ee1b2faa4) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft1.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcQ-IdoQZLHmbBNzJYaSgEtVrQ7CDE88SRh52OMQuAtrZwU7FQm7yMRCih8&hash=5f7243cf6a61525061475d6c143bca2b584c1c50) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcSMZa73fLc9Arb__RblF4Dluwmnk9l1iak0nZykO5D7rRPLVOnUxLW9mw&hash=9fdf717c4a7ee8f334dee5caf5d387ee07fe1873) (https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcSkkHYg5RZVZWrHDj4ChQLcxhiYHiWNyEyDvOWXZrM0QQiIdfS7HpQS-3c&hash=c5511da7ff6faffe6c97fdaad977a91e95267770)


*nods solemnly*  They don't call you shucksters "Fat Cats" for nothing.  *Sits back and admires her own slim liberal ankles*
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: technolud on May 25, 2012, 07:44:50 PM
Hey, my liberal ankles are thin.  But that don't make the rest of me slim.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Siz on May 26, 2012, 07:20:14 AM
This shuckster is neither rich or fat. But nice to see the stereotypes alive and kicking.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: OldGit on May 26, 2012, 09:59:17 AM
I'm very fat, and right-wing, but I'm pretty well on the bread-line.  Where do I fit in among the stereotypes?   ???
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: The Magic Pudding on May 26, 2012, 10:10:01 AM
Quote from: OldGit on May 26, 2012, 09:59:17 AM
I'm very fat, and right-wing, but I'm pretty well on the bread-line.  Where do I fit in among the stereotypes?   ???

Mainstream right wing by the sound of it.
Stinking rich but manages financial affairs to still qualify for free bread.
There's a principle to be defended, if there's free bread in the offing better you have it then those undeserving poor.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: OldGit on May 26, 2012, 10:13:39 AM
Where's this offing place?  I must go there and get the bread before the improvident peasantry arrive and waste it all by feeding it to their brats.  My foxhounds are hungry, too.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: The Magic Pudding on May 26, 2012, 10:23:57 AM
Quote from: OldGit on May 26, 2012, 10:13:39 AM
Where's this offing place? 

It's just past officiousness on the way to the off-licence.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: En_Route on May 26, 2012, 01:36:06 PM
Quote from: The Magic Pudding on May 26, 2012, 10:23:57 AM
Quote from: OldGit on May 26, 2012, 10:13:39 AM
Where's this offing place? 

It's just past officiousness on the way to the off-licence.

Being stereotypically Irish, this is not especially helpful as everywhere is on the way to the off- licence.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: The Magic Pudding on May 26, 2012, 02:23:05 PM
Quote from: En_Route on May 26, 2012, 01:36:06 PM
Being stereotypically Irish, this is not especially helpful as everywhere is on the way to the off- licence.

Yes and with this realisation your route takes you closer to enlightenment, or liver disease.  Ommmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on May 26, 2012, 02:31:26 PM
Quote from: The Magic Pudding on May 26, 2012, 02:23:05 PM
Yes and with this realisation your route takes you closer to enlightenment, or liver disease.
One would think it was either one or the other, but from what I hear, one can acquire both.

QuoteOmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
Ommmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: technolud on May 29, 2012, 09:49:25 PM
Yo!  The staff of the forum.  Remember the staff of the forum question?  Sometimes I feel like I'm hanging out with a bunch of Atheist A-D-D folks.

I think it would be nice if the forum staff started off each thread with a nice haiku:

To be a leader,
One must first dream then act out,
fulfillment is yours.

-Mrs. C Troop 280, St. Petersburg, Florida
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Sweetdeath on July 12, 2012, 01:25:29 AM
You guys all have such different personalities and views. Despite the fact are mostly all atheist here, we all seem to get along, even with different perspectives.

As far as modding, you guys are all extremely fair. You interact and even start fun threads!
You get into heated debates too.

This place keeps me ALIVE.
I LIKE THAT :D Keep up the good work, Tank and Co.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ali on July 12, 2012, 05:29:26 PM
Quote from: technolud on May 29, 2012, 09:49:25 PM
Yo!  The staff of the forum.  Remember the staff of the forum question?  Sometimes I feel like I'm hanging out with a bunch of Atheist A-D-D folks.


I think you make a good...Oh wait, what's that over there?  Cheese toast?!?  I looooove cheese toast.  I also like cheese grits.  
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on July 12, 2012, 06:11:47 PM
His Grayness doesn't hate it - it's better than rabbit food, but is not something He prefers.

That said, I don't remember ever announcing that on HAF. Please refrain from re-distributing personal information obtained elsewhere.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ali on July 12, 2012, 08:52:45 PM
That's weird!  My post disappeared.  I said "Sorry, deleted." 
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on July 12, 2012, 09:59:31 PM
Quote from: Ali on July 12, 2012, 08:52:45 PM
That's weird!  My post disappeared.  I said "Sorry, deleted."  
Yes. I deleted it.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ali on July 12, 2012, 10:07:45 PM
LOL!  I thought I was losing my mind.  Leave this one.  I want Asmo to know that I acknowledge what he said, apologized, and acted on it.   ;)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 12:38:51 AM
I have really thought about this, and I guess I just need some help in understanding what to do and not to do on this board.  Mind you, I read the rules thoroughly before I joined, and I have just reread them before posting.  I am afraid, though, that I am still unprepared for this board.

I take responsiblity for this, and I in no way blame the moderators or the written rules for anything I have said or done.  It has a lot to do with my personality and the reasons I use TheWalkingContradiction as my screen name.  I know the positive and negative things people in real life say about me.  As a compliment, people usually tell me I think in paragraphs instead of sentences and am the most well organized person they know.  They also praise my sincerity.  However, as a criticism, people tell me I am often too serious (despite my sense of humor and willingness to be the teacher who is class clown).  They also say I take too much to heart and get worked up too easily.

I was on an atheist board a while back--actually, more than one--and I guess I made a generic assumption about this board.  There, non-atheists were very aggressive in mocking atheists, and they were mocked in turn.  In many respects, being an atheist on that board was like being an aggressive Christian when I was younger; I had merely 'changed sides'.  I approached everything defensively and, when I had to, aggressively.  I have done the same here, and it has not been appreciated by the moderators at all.  The rules state that I should be civil to all and not feed the trolls, as did similar rules on my former board.  Yet, the rules there were only enforced arbitrarily, and I eventually left because I got tired of being picked apart by Christians.

I was also on a Chrisian board once, but that is a story for another time.  I was actually banned there--although I gained a friend, a conservative gay Christian, who felt I had been treated unfairly.  We have actually become good friends off the Internet, and even we laugh at how unlikely our friendship is.

That is an example of an instance where I can be the person I wish to be.  At most other times, I fall short.

Now here I am on The Happy Atheist.  I fear not only the Christians here, but also that I will continue to overstep and make more enemies than friends.  As a way to compensate for the red moderator voices directed at me, I have been hyper-posting on every conceivable topic and trying too hard, as if that will somehow ingratiate me to the folks here.  (I doubt it will.)

I won't lie and say that I agree with the way the moderators have assessed the situation, but I do know that moderation is necessary on a board like this--and that even if I don't agree it is in my best interests and those of others for me to get off my high horse and do what they say.  The comments about the moderators from longterm users on this thread have been overwhelmingly positive, so obviously something works here.

One of the moderators, McQ, wrote to me (publically) that, as a new member (parapharsing from memory here) I do not understand all of the nuances in communication on the board, the diverse personalities present here, and the reasons for specific types of moderation here.  As much as my ego would like to disagree, I know this is true.  

Maybe, then, I am asking for something more in the rules of or the board that will give me a working theory of all this.  (Let me admit here that I tend to overthink, overcompensate, and overdo.  That is the way my brain works.)

I am not looking for symapthy or gushy posts urging me to stay, as I am not looking to leave.  Instead, I am asking for some guidance that goes beyond McQ's post, something I find hard to ask for.  Such guidance, I believe, will also benefit others.

Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Sweetdeath on July 13, 2012, 01:02:04 AM
Aw, TWC ;-; don't go. At least lurk a bit. We're all nice people here.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 01:17:28 AM
Quote from: Sweetdeath on July 13, 2012, 01:02:04 AM
Aw, TWC ;-; don't go. At least lurk a bit. We're all nice people here.

I'm not going!  As I wrote in my previous post, I am not looking for sympathy or gushy "don't go" posts.  I deeply appreciate your words, but because I want to stay I have to be honest and say I need guidance. 
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Sweetdeath on July 13, 2012, 02:12:45 AM
Quote from: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 01:17:28 AM
Quote from: Sweetdeath on July 13, 2012, 01:02:04 AM
Aw, TWC ;-; don't go. At least lurk a bit. We're all nice people here.

I'm not going!  As I wrote in my previous post, I am not looking for sympathy or gushy "don't go" posts.  I deeply appreciate your words, but because I want to stay I have to be honest and say I need guidance. 

Well, if you want to pay me for guidance that's fine. LOL
but seriously, glad you're sticking around. we're all chummy here, ya.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Crow on July 13, 2012, 03:04:25 AM
TWC just be yourself there is no need to try and fit in by jumping through hoops, you just will if you want it. The mods are most likely cautious because you are a new member and got into a heated exchange rather quickly so their alarms went off. Just try and remember that its hard to gauge a persons true intent via the written word so always leave some room for misunderstanding intentions.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: The Black Jester on July 13, 2012, 03:17:26 AM
Quote from: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 12:38:51 AM

I am not looking for symapthy or gushy posts urging me to stay, as I am not looking to leave.  Instead, I am asking for some guidance that goes beyond McQ's post, something I find hard to ask for.  Such guidance, I believe, will also benefit others.



You may, indeed, be overthinking this, TWC. And I suspect the fact of your concerns is evidence that you are not treading on toes in any real or subtantial way.   I have been such an irregular interlocutor here, that I am perhaps not the best person to respond.  In fact you may really have been looking for advice from the various moderators, but I would like to say that, having followed your posts thus far, I don't think I've seen anything that has stood out as offensive or unusually (for HAF) combative.  Your posts have seemed, to me, fairly exacting in their civility.  Things perhaps got a little tense with AD at one point, but I felt you were in the right in that instance.  Anyway, I look forward to seeing more of you around the forums, and I suspect you may find your comfort level fairly quickly.  
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: McQ on July 13, 2012, 03:40:25 AM
Quote from: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 12:38:51 AM
I have really thought about this, and I guess I just need some help in understanding what to do and not to do on this board.  Mind you, I read the rules thoroughly before I joined, and I have just reread them before posting.  I am afraid, though, that I am still unprepared for this board.

I take responsiblity for this, and I in no way blame the moderators or the written rules for anything I have said or done.  It has a lot to do with my personality and the reasons I use TheWalkingContradiction as my screen name.  I know the positive and negative things people in real life say about me.  As a compliment, people usually tell me I think in paragraphs instead of sentences and am the most well organized person they know.  They also praise my sincerity.  However, as a criticism, people tell me I am often too serious (despite my sense of humor and willingness to be the teacher who is class clown).  They also say I take too much to heart and get worked up too easily.

I was on an atheist board a while back--actually, more than one--and I guess I made a generic assumption about this board.  There, non-atheists were very aggressive in mocking atheists, and they were mocked in turn.  In many respects, being an atheist on that board was like being an aggressive Christian when I was younger; I had merely 'changed sides'.  I approached everything defensively and, when I had to, aggressively.  I have done the same here, and it has not been appreciated by the moderators at all.  The rules state that I should be civil to all and not feed the trolls, as did similar rules on my former board.  Yet, the rules there were only enforced arbitrarily, and I eventually left because I got tired of being picked apart by Christians.

I was also on a Chrisian board once, but that is a story for another time.  I was actually banned there--although I gained a friend, a conservative gay Christian, who felt I had been treated unfairly.  We have actually become good friends off the Internet, and even we laugh at how unlikely our friendship is.

That is an example of an instance where I can be the person I wish to be.  At most other times, I fall short.

Now here I am on The Happy Atheist.  I fear not only the Christians here, but also that I will continue to overstep and make more enemies than friends.  As a way to compensate for the red moderator voices directed at me, I have been hyper-posting on every conceivable topic and trying too hard, as if that will somehow ingratiate me to the folks here.  (I doubt it will.)

I won't lie and say that I agree with the way the moderators have assessed the situation, but I do know that moderation is necessary on a board like this--and that even if I don't agree it is in my best interests and those of others for me to get off my high horse and do what they say.  The comments about the moderators from longterm users on this thread have been overwhelmingly positive, so obviously something works here.

One of the moderators, McQ, wrote to me (publically) that, as a new member (parapharsing from memory here) I do not understand all of the nuances in communication on the board, the diverse personalities present here, and the reasons for specific types of moderation here.  As much as my ego would like to disagree, I know this is true.  

Maybe, then, I am asking for something more in the rules of or the board that will give me a working theory of all this.  (Let me admit here that I tend to overthink, overcompensate, and overdo.  That is the way my brain works.)

I am not looking for symapthy or gushy posts urging me to stay, as I am not looking to leave.  Instead, I am asking for some guidance that goes beyond McQ's post, something I find hard to ask for.  Such guidance, I believe, will also benefit others.


Below is my entire post, which you refer to. In bold is the reason why I wrote what I did about you being new. It was to give you the benefit of the doubt on being at a loss (or a disadvantage) on how to respond to members. Hope that helps clarify why I wrote that. You did not respond in that thread, so I assumed you had dropped the issue. Please feel free to ask questions or get clarification from me or any of the staff (or any of the members) whenever you want it.

Stick around, relax, just get into the flow of the forum. I'm sure you'll be a pro in no time!



First, welcome to the forum. Glad to have you here.

Second, you are very new here, and as such, don't yet have an undstanding of all the members, the nuances of how this forum works, and how it is moderated. So it's natural to be sort of at a loss at first with how to respond to members.

But let me give you my take so far on this issue, and you can take it for what it is worth. I have found AD to be honest, up front and (as a distinct minority here) someone who has had to put up with way more crap than you or most anyone else here. People have piled on him more than any member I can think of in this board's history, and he has done a better job of dealing with it than I would have.

In my opinion, you need to stop going back and forth with this and not fan the flames of the thread more than has been done. You received an honest opinion from AD. You don't have to like it, but he was not gloating or being disingenuous.

Take your time, don't parse every word or look for fights where they don't exist. I think you have gone too far with your assertion that AD has said anything that should make you feel "unsafe". That is tantamount to saying that he threatened you, and that did not happen.

Just relax and enjoy the forum. As has been said, this place isn't about gay or straight (or race, or anything other than atheist). And it is all-inclusive.

We all have to expect that some aspect of our lives don't meet with the approval of everyone. That's life. We deal with it every day as atheists (the most distrusted group in America).

Let's move on please, and just chill out.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on July 13, 2012, 07:08:53 AM
Quote from: Crow on July 13, 2012, 03:04:25 AM
TWC just be yourself there is no need to try and fit in by jumping through hoops, you just will if you want it. The mods are most likely cautious because you are a new member and got into a heated exchange rather quickly so their alarms went off. Just try and remember that its hard to gauge a persons true intent via the written word so always leave some room for misunderstanding intentions.
@TWC This is good advice.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on July 13, 2012, 07:22:30 AM
TWC

Sit down (as in relax), take ten deep breaths, and chill.

You've found a good home here and you've found some good friends, you just may not know it yet; and neither do they. Nobody is going to pick on you, they're quite at liberty to pick at any opinions you express and assertions you make; so don't put too much emotion into what you write.

Just do your best to avoid conflict here, debate is not a requirement. If something ticks you off ignore it. Don't go in forums where you know content is going to annoy you. Stick to the trivial stuff. Post some silly stuff.

Come here to share you joy, not your aggravation and when you've settled in start with the tougher stuff; if you ever want to.

These aren't instructions from a mod but somebody who has far too much experience of atheist and theist forums over the last 6 years.

See this place as your oasis with a shady palm tree and enjoy relaxing here.

After all that's what this place is all about; being a Happy Atheist.

Chris
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on July 13, 2012, 02:23:30 PM
Do I need to bring back the mankinis? I'll do it!
Or have we moved on to catkinis, now?
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi46.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ff106%2Fcarolyn712%2Fcatbikini.gif&hash=21c8c97a539d004f5a508f99c0e4db91755ab3f4)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Crow on July 13, 2012, 02:36:04 PM
Quote from: DeterminedJuliet on July 13, 2012, 02:23:30 PM
Do I need to bring back the mankinis? I'll do it!
Or have we moved on to catkinis, now?

I think we're onto rednecks in speedos now.
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Famericandigest.org%2Fspeedobottom.jpg&hash=55879399b518b131c27436d55286b95eac6836a5)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Amicale on July 13, 2012, 03:32:43 PM
Quote from: DeterminedJuliet on July 13, 2012, 02:23:30 PM
Do I need to bring back the mankinis? I'll do it!
Or have we moved on to catkinis, now?
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi46.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ff106%2Fcarolyn712%2Fcatbikini.gif&hash=21c8c97a539d004f5a508f99c0e4db91755ab3f4)

Love it!!  :D
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ali on July 13, 2012, 03:47:04 PM
TWC - I'm not a mod, but if I can give my perspective, here it is:

We are a tight knit community with a relatively small core of regular posters.  As a result, we "know" each other fairly well (for the internet.)   Because of this, while we may get into debates (and even heated arguments from time to time) at the end of the day we still have an underlying respect and affection for each other that colors the overarching relationships.  We certainly don't always agree with each other, and you can bet that if you post something that someone disagrees with, they will call it out (because that's the kind of personality that makes people atheists in the first place, amiright? ;)) But that doesn't mean that we won't still like you and accept you for who you are. If you become a regular here, we may challenge you from time to time, but we'll also love you and support you and laugh with you.

Also, I would say that this board is about 75% silly goofing off, and 25% serious discussion.  So if you don't feel like getting into a serious discussion about something because you know it will upset you, there should still be about 40 other threads where you can admire cats in bikinis or post dirty jokes, or whatever.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Buddy on July 13, 2012, 04:21:34 PM
Quote from: Crow on July 13, 2012, 02:36:04 PM
I think we're onto rednecks in speedos now.
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Famericandigest.org%2Fspeedobottom.jpg&hash=55879399b518b131c27436d55286b95eac6836a5)

(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi421.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fpp298%2FxUndead_PenguinX%2FPlz%2Fwthplz.png&hash=235e2ca3473d16678c1e6876d1db5570cd1d45a7)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on July 13, 2012, 05:31:12 PM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on July 13, 2012, 04:21:34 PM
Quote from: Crow on July 13, 2012, 02:36:04 PM
I think we're onto rednecks in speedos now.
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Famericandigest.org%2Fspeedobottom.jpg&hash=55879399b518b131c27436d55286b95eac6836a5)

(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi421.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fpp298%2FxUndead_PenguinX%2FPlz%2Fwthplz.png&hash=235e2ca3473d16678c1e6876d1db5570cd1d45a7)
Russell Brand at 50
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Amicale on July 13, 2012, 06:48:53 PM
Quote from: Ali on July 13, 2012, 03:47:04 PM
TWC - I'm not a mod, but if I can give my perspective, here it is:

We are a tight knit community with a relatively small core of regular posters.  As a result, we "know" each other fairly well (for the internet.)   Because of this, while we may get into debates (and even heated arguments from time to time) at the end of the day we still have an underlying respect and affection for each other that colors the overarching relationships.  We certainly don't always agree with each other, and you can bet that if you post something that someone disagrees with, they will call it out (because that's the kind of personality that makes people atheists in the first place, amiright? ;)) But that doesn't mean that we won't still like you and accept you for who you are. If you become a regular here, we may challenge you from time to time, but we'll also love you and support you and laugh with you.

Also, I would say that this board is about 75% silly goofing off, and 25% serious discussion.  So if you don't feel like getting into a serious discussion about something because you know it will upset you, there should still be about 40 other threads where you can admire cats in bikinis or post dirty jokes, or whatever.


Very well said! :)

I like to think I contribute heavily to the 75% silly goofing off.  :D I'll take a cat in a bikini anyday!

Seriously though, I really hugely appreciate this place and the people here because it just feels very comfortable. Homey, really - kinda like how some people argue and debate relatives, but at the end of the day they can all plunk down and joke around or watch a movie together.  :P I genuinely appreciate the folks here, members and mods, and even though there's the odd flare-up and we get told to knock it off and quit being brats  ;) it's generally the support, friendship and laughter that win out here. And there really IS friendship here - we get to know each other, and respect and care about each other. Even Asmo does, I daresay, and he's our resident Grumpy Lumpy.  :D

TWC, I think you fit in here just great. I'm glad you're here. I'm really looking forward to knowing you better. :)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on July 13, 2012, 07:16:04 PM
Asmo's a regular ol' pussycat  ;)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Crow on July 13, 2012, 07:33:55 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 05:31:12 PM
Russell Brand at 50

Lol
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on July 13, 2012, 07:36:53 PM
Quote from: Crow on July 13, 2012, 07:33:55 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 05:31:12 PM
Russell Brand at 50

Lol
I see it took somebody from the UK to spot that :)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Buddy on July 13, 2012, 07:53:31 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 07:36:53 PM
Quote from: Crow on July 13, 2012, 07:33:55 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 05:31:12 PM
Russell Brand at 50

Lol
I see it took somebody from the UK to spot that :)

Oh I got it, I was just to busy gouging my eyes out with a rusty spoon. 
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: The Black Jester on July 13, 2012, 07:54:22 PM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on July 13, 2012, 07:53:31 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 07:36:53 PM
Quote from: Crow on July 13, 2012, 07:33:55 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 05:31:12 PM
Russell Brand at 50

Lol
I see it took somebody from the UK to spot that :)

Oh I got it, I was just to busy gouging my eyes out with a rusty spoon. 

Coincidentally, I was doing the same...
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ihateyoumike on July 13, 2012, 08:15:09 PM
Quote from: The Black Jester on July 13, 2012, 07:54:22 PM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on July 13, 2012, 07:53:31 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 07:36:53 PM
Quote from: Crow on July 13, 2012, 07:33:55 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 05:31:12 PM
Russell Brand at 50

Lol
I see it took somebody from the UK to spot that :)

Oh I got it, I was just to busy gouging my eyes out with a rusty spoon. 

Coincidentally, I was doing the same...

I was too busy being upset that there's not enough eye-bleach in the world to unsee what I just saw.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Amicale on July 13, 2012, 08:34:39 PM
Quote from: Ihateyoumike on July 13, 2012, 08:15:09 PM
Quote from: The Black Jester on July 13, 2012, 07:54:22 PM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on July 13, 2012, 07:53:31 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 07:36:53 PM
Quote from: Crow on July 13, 2012, 07:33:55 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 05:31:12 PM
Russell Brand at 50

Lol
I see it took somebody from the UK to spot that :)

Oh I got it, I was just to busy gouging my eyes out with a rusty spoon. 

Coincidentally, I was doing the same...

I was too busy being upset that there's not enough eye-bleach in the world to unsee what I just saw.

I was too busy wondering how in the bloody hell he could think anyone would find that pose SEXY.  :o
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on July 13, 2012, 08:39:18 PM
He's kind of mesmerizing. His gaze is so... assured.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Ali on July 13, 2012, 08:56:38 PM
Yes.  And he's put together quite a collection of stimulating objets d'art to pose with.  I believe those small red and gold boxes contain the same brand of matches my in laws use to light their candles on Shabbat.  
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Stevil on July 13, 2012, 09:42:06 PM
Quote from: Ali on July 13, 2012, 08:56:38 PM
Yes.  And he's put together quite a collection of stimulating objets d'art to pose with.  I believe those small red and gold boxes contain the same brand of matches my in laws use to light their candles on Shabbat.  
I was impressed when I saw the guitars but then on further inspection they are video game versions, the guy is just a poser.

It is a good advertisement for having some mental profiling of people before letting them buy guns, although I suspect these guns are either video game guns or water pistols. I think a couple of them are paintball.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Velma on July 13, 2012, 09:44:18 PM
Quote from: Ihateyoumike on July 13, 2012, 08:15:09 PM
Quote from: The Black Jester on July 13, 2012, 07:54:22 PM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on July 13, 2012, 07:53:31 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 07:36:53 PM
Quote from: Crow on July 13, 2012, 07:33:55 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 05:31:12 PM
Russell Brand at 50

Lol
I see it took somebody from the UK to spot that :)

Oh I got it, I was just to busy gouging my eyes out with a rusty spoon. 

Coincidentally, I was doing the same...

I was too busy being upset that there's not enough eye-bleach in the world to unsee what I just saw.
Unfortunately there is not.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Velma on July 13, 2012, 09:45:30 PM
Not to derail, but maybe this will help:

(https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s480x480/308403_246692935373751_1563322429_n.jpg)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 10:52:38 PM
So much good stuff here.  Thank you to everyone for very generous replies.

Although I will only reply to a couple of remarks here and there, know that I have read every word and appreciate it all.

Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 10:55:28 PM
Quote from: The Black Jester on July 13, 2012, 03:17:26 AM
...but I would like to say that, having followed your posts thus far, I don't think I've seen anything that has stood out as offensive or unusually (for HAF) combative.  Your posts have seemed, to me, fairly exacting in their civility...

Thank you!  I have really, really tried to be civil in every post, but I fear the vampire in me unsheathing his fangs...  I am glad that what I wrote was well received.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 10:57:23 PM
Quote from: McQ on July 13, 2012, 03:40:25 AM

Below is my entire post, which you refer to. In bold is the reason why I wrote what I did about you being new. It was to give you the benefit of the doubt on being at a loss (or a disadvantage) on how to respond to members.

What's interesting to me is how, the first time I read your post, I felt like a schoolboy being sternly reprimanded.  Then when you reposted it and I looked at it again last night, I saw it in a completely positive manner.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 10:58:35 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 07:22:30 AM


See this place as your oasis with a shady palm tree and enjoy relaxing here.


A delightful simile given my ethnicity!   :)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on July 13, 2012, 11:09:46 PM
Quote from: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 10:58:35 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 13, 2012, 07:22:30 AM


See this place as your oasis with a shady palm tree and enjoy relaxing here.


A delightful simile given my ethnicity!   :)
Glad you liked it.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: McQ on July 14, 2012, 12:14:36 AM
Quote from: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 10:57:23 PM
Quote from: McQ on July 13, 2012, 03:40:25 AM

Below is my entire post, which you refer to. In bold is the reason why I wrote what I did about you being new. It was to give you the benefit of the doubt on being at a loss (or a disadvantage) on how to respond to members.

What's interesting to me is how, the first time I read your post, I felt like a schoolboy being sternly reprimanded.  Then when you reposted it and I looked at it again last night, I saw it in a completely positive manner.

I'm glad you were able to see it in the spirit it was intended. I should probably change my avatar one of these days so people realize there is an actual human being who isn't a total a-hole behind the posts.

Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on July 14, 2012, 12:16:20 AM
Quote from: McQ on July 14, 2012, 12:14:36 AM
Quote from: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 10:57:23 PM
Quote from: McQ on July 13, 2012, 03:40:25 AM

Below is my entire post, which you refer to. In bold is the reason why I wrote what I did about you being new. It was to give you the benefit of the doubt on being at a loss (or a disadvantage) on how to respond to members.

What's interesting to me is how, the first time I read your post, I felt like a schoolboy being sternly reprimanded.  Then when you reposted it and I looked at it again last night, I saw it in a completely positive manner.

I'm glad you were able to see it in the spirit it was intended. I should probably change my avatar one of these days so people realize there is an actual human being who isn't a total a-hole behind the posts.



The puppy avatar seems to be working for En_Route  ;D
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Buddy on July 14, 2012, 02:30:40 AM
Quote from: DeterminedJuliet on July 14, 2012, 12:16:20 AM
Quote from: McQ on July 14, 2012, 12:14:36 AM
Quote from: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 10:57:23 PM
Quote from: McQ on July 13, 2012, 03:40:25 AM

Below is my entire post, which you refer to. In bold is the reason why I wrote what I did about you being new. It was to give you the benefit of the doubt on being at a loss (or a disadvantage) on how to respond to members.

What's interesting to me is how, the first time I read your post, I felt like a schoolboy being sternly reprimanded.  Then when you reposted it and I looked at it again last night, I saw it in a completely positive manner.

I'm glad you were able to see it in the spirit it was intended. I should probably change my avatar one of these days so people realize there is an actual human being who isn't a total a-hole behind the posts.



The puppy avatar seems to be working for En_Route  ;D

At this rate, everybody will have cute, fluffy avatars.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on July 14, 2012, 02:36:23 AM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on July 14, 2012, 02:30:40 AM
At this rate, everybody will have cute, fluffy avatars.
The Asmo will respond by threatening to leave and initiate a global flood.  >:(
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Sweetdeath on July 14, 2012, 04:20:30 AM
Quote from: Asmodean on July 14, 2012, 02:36:23 AM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on July 14, 2012, 02:30:40 AM
At this rate, everybody will have cute, fluffy avatars.
The Asmo will respond by threatening to leave and initiate a global flood.  >:(

Uh oh~
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Amicale on July 14, 2012, 06:15:58 AM
Quote from: Asmodean on July 14, 2012, 02:36:23 AM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on July 14, 2012, 02:30:40 AM
At this rate, everybody will have cute, fluffy avatars.
The Asmo will respond by threatening to leave and initiate a global flood.  >:(

*yawn* Old strategy.  :D Yahweh had you beat, he already did the flood thing.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Buddy on July 14, 2012, 06:44:26 AM
Quote from: Amicale on July 14, 2012, 06:15:58 AM
Quote from: Asmodean on July 14, 2012, 02:36:23 AM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on July 14, 2012, 02:30:40 AM
At this rate, everybody will have cute, fluffy avatars.
The Asmo will respond by threatening to leave and initiate a global flood.  >:(

*yawn* Old strategy.  :D Yahweh had you beat, he already did the flood thing.

I for one, woul welcome a flood with open arms. It's so dry!
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on July 14, 2012, 07:20:53 AM
Quote from: McQ on July 14, 2012, 12:14:36 AM
Quote from: TheWalkingContradiction on July 13, 2012, 10:57:23 PM
Quote from: McQ on July 13, 2012, 03:40:25 AM

Below is my entire post, which you refer to. In bold is the reason why I wrote what I did about you being new. It was to give you the benefit of the doubt on being at a loss (or a disadvantage) on how to respond to members.

What's interesting to me is how, the first time I read your post, I felt like a schoolboy being sternly reprimanded.  Then when you reposted it and I looked at it again last night, I saw it in a completely positive manner.

I'm glad you were able to see it in the spirit it was intended. I should probably change my avatar one of these days so people realize there is an actual human being who isn't a total a-hole behind the posts.
:-X
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on July 14, 2012, 07:22:22 AM
Quote from: Asmodean on July 14, 2012, 02:36:23 AM
Quote from: Budhorse4 on July 14, 2012, 02:30:40 AM
At this rate, everybody will have cute, fluffy avatars.
The Asmo will respond by threatening to leave and initiate a global flood.  >:(
I hope you can swim, but you don't look that hydrodynamic to me  ;D
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: OldGit on July 14, 2012, 09:22:26 AM
Quote from: BuddyI for one, would welcome a flood with open arms. It's so dry!

You can have ours.  Please.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Crow on July 14, 2012, 02:12:11 PM
Quote from: OldGit on July 14, 2012, 09:22:26 AM
Quote from: BuddyI for one, would welcome a flood with open arms. It's so dry!

You can have ours.  Please.

You can say that again, it must have rained almost solidly for about 2 months.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: OldGit on July 14, 2012, 03:59:38 PM
Three months, in fact.  April and June were all-time records for UK rainfall, and we're heading for one in July.  May wasn't quite so bad, but the rainfall for the 3 months April to June was also an all-time record.

So the question is, what do we want the staff of the forum to do about this?
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: The Black Jester on July 14, 2012, 04:02:35 PM
Quote from: OldGit on July 14, 2012, 03:59:38 PM
Three months, in fact.  April and June were all-time records for UK rainfall, and we're heading for one in July.  May wasn't quite so bad, but the rainfall for the 3 months April to June was also an all-time record.

So the question is, what do we want the staff of the forum to do about this?

If the staff could please transport some of the rainfall to the Southwestern United States, it would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Buddy on July 14, 2012, 08:01:58 PM
Quote from: The Black Jester on July 14, 2012, 04:02:35 PM
Quote from: OldGit on July 14, 2012, 03:59:38 PM
Three months, in fact.  April and June were all-time records for UK rainfall, and we're heading for one in July.  May wasn't quite so bad, but the rainfall for the 3 months April to June was also an all-time record.

So the question is, what do we want the staff of the forum to do about this?

If the staff could please transport some of the rainfall to the Southwestern United States, it would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks.

And Midwest. That would be nice.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on July 14, 2012, 08:30:00 PM
And Ottawa, I think we've gotten two small showers in three months.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on July 14, 2012, 09:18:27 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 14, 2012, 07:22:22 AM
I hope you can swim, but you don't look that hydrodynamic to me  ;D
The Asmo, he has a swarm of buoyminions like this one:

(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.nauticexpo.com%2Fimages_ne%2Fphoto-g%2Fbuoy-for-mussel-farming-292838.jpg&hash=09a974c02c0baec359a77e32a19eebda405d7362)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Sweetdeath on July 16, 2012, 10:37:22 AM
Quote from: Asmodean on July 14, 2012, 09:18:27 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 14, 2012, 07:22:22 AM
I hope you can swim, but you don't look that hydrodynamic to me  ;D
The Asmo, he has a swarm of buoyminions like this one:

(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.nauticexpo.com%2Fimages_ne%2Fphoto-g%2Fbuoy-for-mussel-farming-292838.jpg&hash=09a974c02c0baec359a77e32a19eebda405d7362)


those things need faces.  :P
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on July 16, 2012, 05:10:00 PM
Quote from: Sweetdeath on July 16, 2012, 10:37:22 AM
those things need faces.  :P
It's turned its back on the world, it has.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Amicale on July 16, 2012, 05:18:04 PM
Quote from: Sweetdeath on July 16, 2012, 10:37:22 AM
those things need faces.  :P

Quote from: AsmodeanIt's turned its back on the world, it has.

Egads!! It turned around! It's snarling at me!

(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi46.tinypic.com%2F20p7zit.jpg&hash=8617391a1e0f0bb715feab5245e494f06beebbc0)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on July 16, 2012, 05:19:11 PM
Hahahahaha!
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tank on July 16, 2012, 05:21:16 PM
I really worry about the sanity of this place sometimes  ::)
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Amicale on July 16, 2012, 05:22:27 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 16, 2012, 05:21:16 PM
I really worry about the sanity of this place sometimes  ::)

I worry about the sanity of this place too. It needs far more insane people. Like us.  ;D
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: En_Route on July 16, 2012, 05:27:34 PM
Quote from: Amicale on July 16, 2012, 05:22:27 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 16, 2012, 05:21:16 PM
I really worry about the sanity of this place sometimes  ::)

I worry about the sanity of this place too. It needs far more insane people. Like us.  ;D

I'm doing my best.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: DeterminedJuliet on July 16, 2012, 05:29:07 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 16, 2012, 05:21:16 PM
I really worry about the sanity of this place sometimes  ::)

It's only going crazy that's painful. Once you're completely bonkers, it's not so bad.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on July 16, 2012, 05:54:54 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 16, 2012, 05:21:16 PM
I really worry about the sanity of this place sometimes  ::)
The Asmo is sane. Yup. He IS.

Why, you may ask? Because He declares it so.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Amicale on July 16, 2012, 05:56:41 PM
Quote from: DeterminedJuliet on July 16, 2012, 05:29:07 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 16, 2012, 05:21:16 PM
I really worry about the sanity of this place sometimes  ::)

It's only going crazy that's painful. Once you're completely bonkers, it's not so bad.

True. When you realize you're going crazy and ought not to be, that's frustrating and a little scary. Or later, once you realize just how crazy you were, that's scary too. The inbetween time of actually being off your rocker is weird, but manageable. Fun, some days. Freaky others. All in all, you just keep drinking coffee and hoping for the best.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: OldGit on July 16, 2012, 06:04:01 PM
Keep drinking coffee.  Be loony.  Be happy about it.  That really ought to go in the 'Good Advice' thread.  I agree entirely.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on July 16, 2012, 07:19:14 PM
I have a different perspective: Fuck it all and be yourself.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Crow on July 16, 2012, 07:58:37 PM
Quote from: Asmodean on July 16, 2012, 07:19:14 PM
I have a different perspective: Fuck it all and be yourself.

Not too different as that's mine.
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Tom62 on July 16, 2012, 08:27:19 PM
My father always said "You've got to act sometimes crazy, otherwise you become crazy".
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: xSilverPhinx on July 17, 2012, 03:39:05 AM
Quote from: Sweetdeath on July 16, 2012, 10:37:22 AM
Quote from: Asmodean on July 14, 2012, 09:18:27 PM
Quote from: Tank on July 14, 2012, 07:22:22 AM
I hope you can swim, but you don't look that hydrodynamic to me  ;D
The Asmo, he has a swarm of buoyminions like this one:

(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.nauticexpo.com%2Fimages_ne%2Fphoto-g%2Fbuoy-for-mussel-farming-292838.jpg&hash=09a974c02c0baec359a77e32a19eebda405d7362)


those things need faces.  :P

But not names. I cringe when someone calls a floating object "Wilson".
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Asmodean on July 17, 2012, 03:47:46 AM
No, that particular one is called Watson
Title: Re: What do you expect/want from the staff of the forum?
Post by: Sweetdeath on July 17, 2012, 04:50:48 AM
Quote from: OldGit on July 16, 2012, 06:04:01 PM
Keep drinking coffee.  Be loony.  Be happy about it.  That really ought to go in the 'Good Advice' thread.  I agree entirely.


I love this place.
Ah, coffee. Sweet, sweet , drug of choice.  ;D