3. Recently I think it has been too heavily moderated for content. Anyone who seems to spark a little bit of debate seems to be got rid of very easily. Which I think also links back to number 2 also. Perhaps we do need some more argumentative characters once more to kick the debates into action. BTW I'm not equating uncivil with argumentative. I'm thinking more of the Stevil type character who was perfectly civil but often gave a different perspective.
Perhaps we need a discussion on what a forum like this is actually for? At the moment I feel like there isn't a difference between this and my facebook feed.
What kind of member do you think is better suited to this forum? Someone who wants to talk about religion and atheism or someone who wants community and wants to talk about whatever?
Quote from: FernandaWhat kind of member do you think is better suited to this forum? Someone who wants to talk about religion and atheism or someone who wants community and wants to talk about whatever?
We used to have plenty of both, which was our strength, but as often happens it began to split into two groups.
How we'd go about to achieve this I don't know, if I knew any other English-speaking atheists in my area I would invite them.
I can take on a different persona and be a total jerk/contrarian about everything, if that will spice things up.
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.
…It is our goal to help dissolve negative stereotypes currently held towards atheists and facilitate productive dialogue with those of differing viewpoints…If that’s the case, why is it that only one Christian has stuck around this long? :eyebrow:
What kind of member do you think is better suited to this forum? Someone who wants to talk about religion and atheism or someone who wants community and wants to talk about whatever?
Asmo maybe you think Atheism as a topic is dead and all there is to say has been said. It makes me wonder why so many other atheist forums are flourishing though? Again, maybe I just need to join one of these.Not dead - not at all, just dormant in its core questions. Until something new and exciting comes along, it's mostly just reactionary to the foolishness of religions.
Prior to joining HAF I belong to the forum "Atheism Plus" which several years ago was an extremely vibrant and active forum. When I logged onto it a month or so ago there hadn't been a new comment posted in some 4-5 weeks, and now the forum itself isn't even available online as I assume they have allowed it to go dormant rather than spend money keeping a dead forum active.
That said I would personally like to extend my apologies not only to Claire, but to Siz, JJ, Crow, Bad Penny, Recusant and any others here at HAF for having ruined such a bastion of intellectual discussion and debate.
You could change the name of the forum to "Lazy Atheists" or "Comfortably Numb Atheists" or "Apathetic Atheists" or some such.
You could borrow a method from Christianity ...(https://drnorth.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/vlcsnap-2009-12-01-00h51m38s230.png)
:DYou could borrow a method from Christianity ...(https://drnorth.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/vlcsnap-2009-12-01-00h51m38s230.png)
"We're gonna make a fortune!"
:grin:
A name change could be in order, how about the "Prudish Proud Preppy Atheist Forum"?I think I can be a prudish, proud, and preppy atheist. :notsure:
A name change could be in order, how about the "Prudish Proud Preppy Atheist Forum"?I think I can be a prudish, proud, and preppy atheist. :notsure:
A name change could be in order, how about the "Prudish Proud Preppy Atheist Forum"?I think I can be a prudish, proud, and preppy atheist. :notsure:
Would that be Lysergic acid diethylamide?
I blame all the gifs. (I KID, I KID! I just remember that was once a source of controversy.)In threads like this one, for instance, I do blame them - or at least see them as potentially destructive to the serious nature of the argument.
I must admit to being very desensitised to the plight of a poster who claims destructiveness of an argument on a simple graphic interchange format; I mean if you can't take it I guess stay off the internets,maybe go someplace where it's safe?What plight would that be, I wonder?
I blame all the gifs. (I KID, I KID! I just remember that was once a source of controversy.)
Hi all,
Xoxoxox Alex asked me to come back and give my thoughts on why I don't visit the forum much any more. First of all, I don't consider myself an ex-member. HAF4Lyfe! And it's really nothing to do with the forum. I've always loved this forum and how it was a virtual hang out for an international group of friends. I met G85. Buddy, G85, Tank, and Siz met up. Claire and John found love! This place is awesome.
I think the problem for me is just that I'm kind of in a different place in my life right now. When I found this place, I was still pretty "into" my atheism. And I wanted to talk about it!!! These days, I'm still an atheist, but a pretty apathetic one to be honest. I just don't have much else to say on the topic at the moment. I also don't have a ton of time for the Internet any more. I used to work a job that necessitated about 2 hours of work and about 6 hours of Internet surfing a day, so that made it easy to keep up. Now I have a job that works me to the bone most days, and then for years I would go home and be a single parent to two small boys, and have to take care of them and dinner and all of the housework, and by the time that was done, I just wanted to fall asleep watching a movie or something, and not have to interact with anyone.
But! Good news! I think most of you are my FB friends, so you probably already know, but I'm engaged and living with my fiancé. So that part of my life has changed again. Not saying I have a ton more time now, as we have 4 boys between the two of us (3 year old, 8 year old, 11 year old, and a 13 year old, Asmo help us) but at least I have someone to share a stressed out crazy smile with when things are hectic.
Anyway, I guess that's an explanation and an update all at once. I do miss you heathens, and want to be a better HAFer. I'll definitely try.
I must admit to being very desensitised to the plight of a poster who claims destructiveness of an argument on a simple graphic interchange format; I mean if you can't take it I guess stay off the internets,maybe go someplace where it's safe?What plight would that be, I wonder?
Are you perhaps reading stuff into my comment that isn't there? If so, I can clarify. Free use of graphics adds to the mess. Mess makes it more difficult to follow the threads of the discussion. That leads to the discussion being dropped or derailed - perhaps before it reaches some actual goal/conclusion/resolution. Off-topic half-liner comments in serious discussion threads often serve the same purpose. My opinion? It sucks, but not enough for a response beyond "fuck it" or, in this case, these few words on the subject.
**Ahem***I blame all the gifs. (I KID, I KID! I just remember that was once a source of controversy.)In threads like this one, for instance, I do blame them - or at least see them as potentially destructive to the serious nature of the argument.
...I'm sorry, what are we arguing about, again? :(
Oh! :-X...I'm sorry, what are we arguing about, again? :(
Ahem, we were having a serious discussion here Magdalena not an argument.
I'm the same way Ali. When I first joined I was all about the atheism and now it's really not that big of a deal.
And I keep forgetting that G85 came out your way. Wow G85, you've really been around the block. ;)
I'm the same way Ali. When I first joined I was all about the atheism and now it's really not that big of a deal.
And I keep forgetting that G85 came out your way. Wow G85, you've really been around the block. ;)
I also don't engage as much with atheist subjects anymore. I still keep an ear to the ground, but the goings on in the atheist movement are less interesting then when I got in.
What distinguishes a serious thread from one that isn't serious?Those squiggly things inside.
I blame all the gifs. (I KID, I KID! I just remember that was once a source of controversy.)
Hi all,
Xoxoxox Alex asked me to come back and give my thoughts on why I don't visit the forum much any more. First of all, I don't consider myself an ex-member. HAF4Lyfe! And it's really nothing to do with the forum. I've always loved this forum and how it was a virtual hang out for an international group of friends. I met G85. Buddy, G85, Tank, and Siz met up. Claire and John found love! This place is awesome.
I think the problem for me is just that I'm kind of in a different place in my life right now. When I found this place, I was still pretty "into" my atheism. And I wanted to talk about it!!! These days, I'm still an atheist, but a pretty apathetic one to be honest. I just don't have much else to say on the topic at the moment. I also don't have a ton of time for the Internet any more. I used to work a job that necessitated about 2 hours of work and about 6 hours of Internet surfing a day, so that made it easy to keep up. Now I have a job that works me to the bone most days, and then for years I would go home and be a single parent to two small boys, and have to take care of them and dinner and all of the housework, and by the time that was done, I just wanted to fall asleep watching a movie or something, and not have to interact with anyone.
But! Good news! I think most of you are my FB friends, so you probably already know, but I'm engaged and living with my fiancé. So that part of my life has changed again. Not saying I have a ton more time now, as we have 4 boys between the two of us (3 year old, 8 year old, 11 year old, and a 13 year old, Asmo help us) but at least I have someone to share a stressed out crazy smile with when things are hectic.
Anyway, I guess that's an explanation and an update all at once. I do miss you heathens, and want to be a better HAFer. I'll definitely try.
Oh! :-X...I'm sorry, what are we arguing about, again? :(
Ahem, we were having a serious discussion here Magdalena not an argument.
I just remembered...Sorry, it takes me a while. ::)
It’s about:
Not getting new members.
Not being able to retain new members.
Banning new members.
Not wanting the “silly ones” we have, doing silly things.
High profile members 'retiring'.
…and the future of this place.
I don't know that we've totally figured it out either. FWIW, this one is 8th on the list of Google sites for "atheist forums" for me, so maybe it's lower in the US. Maybe getting that higher would help? More use of metatags, perhaps.
I may be relatively new and more than likely the least liked member of the community , but I would like to interject an issue that I see.
This forum is incredibly slow. Now I realize that we all have lives outside of this place. Jobs, errands, loved ones that take up our time. People don't have the time to consistently wait around for someone to reply to their reply, only to reply to that reply.
But, there will be a topic that generates some traffic, there will 3, 4, 5 comments, then nothing for hours. This can be a serious turn off to those who hover around contemplating becoming a member.
A lot of of other forums I have visited, have a games section, something to keep members entertained in between the serious discussions. That doesn't seem to exist here.
Also something that I just don't understand is how people get upset at comments that veer off the main discussion "derailing" the thread. That's how conversation works in the real world. If you are hanging out with your friends, buddies, pals, guys, chum, co-conspirators discussing something the conversation twists and turns and often covers several subjects. I agree that if someone is being blatantly ignorant, or just plain mean, there is a problem. However, if one says something that opens the door to sarcasm or even an innuendo, again that's how it works in the real world. If you say something that your friends can pounce on, true friends normally do.
The beautiful thing is, you don't have to reply. But we are not very good at keeping our opinions to ourselves. We want to through in our two cents. To make sure our voices are heard. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, people shouldn't take offense to what is said here in cyberspace.
I am completely rambling now, lost focus of where I was going. I could be wrong (it's been known to happen) but I believe that most of us here are nonbelievers of all all powerful judgemental creator. Honestly though, how long can a talk of what is the main thought we all share on the subject maintain momentum before it becomes stale.
Back to my original point, if there was a bit more liveliness, maybe a section of the forum that would allow for new members to become comfortable, before they jump into the thick of things, it may attract fresh blood. But, I'm an idiot, so why would anyone listen to me?
I like the forum as is and enjoy both the atheistic and general comments, although I have no experience of other forums. Here in the UK, atheism is no big deal so there's not much to kick against; not like the big deal it appears to be in the US as reported by Patheos Friendly Atheist daily.
I do find it a bit intimidating at times that everyone else is either very witty/extremely knowlegeable/ intelligent or all three but then you all need someone to appreciate that - we can't all be sparklingly funny, butyou need someone to laugh at/wonder at/respond to your posts. I'm the sort of person who thinks of the deadly riposte about 6 months too late, but I'm OK with that. I feel a bit out of the loop because I can't join the meets, but I'm never around on my own to be able to do that, but I'm glad for those of you who can take part. HAF is entertaining, frivolous, serious, cross, and many other things. I don't have to read the car thread so I don't, but it's good that there is one.
As for moderation, people can argue what they like as long as they do it cogently; personal insults using bad language (I'm not talking about the casual expletives that some HAFers pepper their posts with - not bothered by that), are just unintelligent and boring. Do I really mean that though? The idea of censorship is repugnant, but just what do you do about someone who puts forward racist/homophobic/sexist ideas/ opinions? I don't mind people being severely critical of me or others, as long as they back their criticisms up with reasonable arguments.
Yes, it would be good to have new members, and I'll try to think if there is anyone I could introduce. So, HAF is good as it is, and I hope it continues. (And I love the jokes).
As for bloody FB, that has caused me a big problem just yesterday when one of my athiest relations commented on a post by one of my DIL's friends in which my DIL was tagged, in a way that upset her so much she removed the original post and my DIL unfriended my relation. I respond to very little because of not wanting to reveal my true belief, or lack thereof. With HAF, WYSIWYG, and it feels good. FB and HAF are just different things altogether.
...and more than likely the least liked member of the communityWhy would you think that?
...and more than likely the least liked member of the communityWhy would you think that?
Also something that I just don't understand is how people get upset at comments that veer off the main discussion "derailing" the thread. That's how conversation works in the real world. If you are hanging out with your friends, buddies, pals, guys, chum, co-conspirators discussing something the conversation twists and turns and often covers several subjects. I agree that if someone is being blatantly ignorant, or just plain mean, there is a problem. However, if one says something that opens the door to sarcasm or even an innuendo, again that's how it works in the real world. If you say something that your friends can pounce on, true friends normally do.
Hi all,
Xoxoxox Alex asked me to come back and give my thoughts on why I don't visit the forum much any more. First of all, I don't consider myself an ex-member. HAF4Lyfe! And it's really nothing to do with the forum. I've always loved this forum and how it was a virtual hang out for an international group of friends. I met G85. Buddy, G85, Tank, and Siz met up. Claire and John found love! This place is awesome.
I may be relatively new and more than likely the least liked member of the community , ...Rubbish. You've added a nice little tang to the place :)
Hi all,
Xoxoxox Alex asked me to come back and give my thoughts on why I don't visit the forum much any more. First of all, I don't consider myself an ex-member. HAF4Lyfe! And it's really nothing to do with the forum. I've always loved this forum and how it was a virtual hang out for an international group of friends. I met G85. Buddy, G85, Tank, and Siz met up. Claire and JJ found love! This place is awesome.
That all sound well and good but.... who the fuck is John, or are you referring to a different Claire?
I may be relatively new and more than likely the least liked member of the community , ...Rubbish. You've added a nice little tang to the place :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqH21LEmfbQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqH21LEmfbQ)
:dance: :rimshot: :drink: :daddance: :cheerful dance 2: :clapping: :frolic: :zombie: :badger: :headbang: :guitar:
I was joking Ali. Almost nobody calls me John.
LOL! More of a zesty curry stench.I may be relatively new and more than likely the least liked member of the community , ...Rubbish. You've added a nice little tang to the place :)
So you're saying I leave a bad taste in your mouth?
I was joking Ali. Almost nobody calls me John.
I was joking Ali. Almost nobody calls me John.
What if it was Dr John, Smock Maker Extrordinairre?
Do we have a consensus on the .gif issue? No?There's no need to do this, anymore. I'll just take my shit somewhere else.
Well never mind the bothersome dialogue, I'll unilaterally declare one.
Some people like .gifs and they are free to post them, preferably in their quarantine zone.
Other members, aesthetes and lumps don't like .gifs and are free to complain about them.
I don't like Gifs but I do enjoy whingeing about them, it doesn't compensate entirely for the assault to my senses, yet it is a small recompense. And no I don't think anti .gif posts should be quarantined, a dedicated denunciation thread in the philosophy section would be appropriate though. Probably one in science as well,,,, probably a thread in all the sections, they're just so wrong in so many ways.
Social issue: I think they are a gateway to gateway drugs,
Science: myopia is a growing problem - gifs
Philosophy: .gifism is a particularly ugly bastard child of hedonism and the stoic, combining the worst of both. Followers eschew natural colour music and self movement whilst embracing a pitifully diminished pallet, simpleton captioning and repetition, and repetition and repetition and it is a waste, such a waste.
A .jpg with millions of colours is so frugal with its bytes, the wastrel .gifest won't appreciate it though.
.png is a virtuous thing, the stationary .gif an anachronism, a shim at best.
Perhaps rehabilitation is possible but that would be for more patient souls than mine.
There's no need to do this, anymore. I'll just take my shit somewhere else.
Our mission statement begins with: "...It is our goal to help dissolve negative stereotypes currently held towards atheists and facilitate productive dialogue with those of differing viewpoints..." and it ends with something like this: "...The complete freedom to simply be the person you want to be..." I just don't feel that, right now, here.
I've been lurking the "hippie" forums. Maybe it's time I join my kind.
There's no need to do this, anymore. I'll just take my shit somewhere else.
Our mission statement begins with: "...It is our goal to help dissolve negative stereotypes currently held towards atheists and facilitate productive dialogue with those of differing viewpoints..." and it ends with something like this: "...The complete freedom to simply be the person you want to be..." I just don't feel that, right now, here.
I've been lurking the "hippie" forums. Maybe it's time I join my kind.
Watch out for them there hippies. They were cool in the 60's but now they are all cultists.Ha! ;D
Watch out for them there hippies. They were cool in the 60's but now they are all cultists.Ha! ;D
...although I can't see how this was ever cool:
(https://sharingthehippielove.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/hippiebus.jpg)
It was an abomination from the moment it rolled out of the factory that made it.
Yeah, well...those of us who post gifs and cast spells are not constantly harassing those who are grumpy about stuff. We don't write paragraphs after paragraphs about how much we dislike their grumpiness. Heck! We haven't even turned them into a newt! >:( They're not even thankful about that! ...So ungrateful! >:(There's no need to do this, anymore. I'll just take my shit somewhere else.
Our mission statement begins with: "...It is our goal to help dissolve negative stereotypes currently held towards atheists and facilitate productive dialogue with those of differing viewpoints..." and it ends with something like this: "...The complete freedom to simply be the person you want to be..." I just don't feel that, right now, here.
I've been lurking the "hippie" forums. Maybe it's time I join my kind.
You have complete freedom here. You be yourself by posting .gifs and casting spells, and others are themselves by being grumpy about stuff. Watch out for them there hippies. They were cool in the 60's but now they are all cultists.
Probably one in science as well,,,,
Do we have a consensus on the .gif issue? No?
Well never mind the bothersome dialogue, I'll unilaterally declare one.
Some people like .gifs and they are free to post them, preferably in their quarantine zone.
Other members, aesthetes and lumps don't like .gifs and are free to complain about them.
I don't like Gifs but I do enjoy whingeing about them, it doesn't compensate entirely for the assault to my senses, yet it is a small recompense. And no I don't think anti .gif posts should be quarantined, a dedicated denunciation thread in the philosophy section would be appropriate though.
There's no need to do this, anymore. I'll just take my shit somewhere else.
Our mission statement begins with: "...It is our goal to help dissolve negative stereotypes currently held towards atheists and facilitate productive dialogue with those of differing viewpoints..." and it ends with something like this: "...The complete freedom to simply be the person you want to be..." I just don't feel that, right now, here.
I've been lurking the "hippie" forums. Maybe it's time I join my kind.
Hello, Jimmy, I don't think we've met. It's nice to meet you. :)
There's no need to do this, anymore. I'll just take my shit somewhere else.
Our mission statement begins with: "...It is our goal to help dissolve negative stereotypes currently held towards atheists and facilitate productive dialogue with those of differing viewpoints..." and it ends with something like this: "...The complete freedom to simply be the person you want to be..." I just don't feel that, right now, here.
I've been lurking the "hippie" forums. Maybe it's time I join my kind.
This is the Happy Atheist forum, other atheists will be persecuted for trespassing. ;)
Hello, Jimmy, I don't think we've met. It's nice to meet you. :)
I think I figured out I was a hippie AFTER I realized I was an atheist, by the time I figured it out, it was too late, I was addicted to this place, I couldn't leave....but now. :sad sigh: I don't know, I don't like this gif-ers persecution. >:( Six...yes! Six years fighting "the man" about it! I AM TIRED! >:(
We don't write paragraphs after paragraphs about how much we dislike their grumpiness.Some people write paragraphs while others post .gifs. Some people prefer words, others prefer pictures. As long as it is at all relevant to the discussion (or the derail, for that matter) at hand, I'm pretty "oh, whatever" about it. Huge images to substitute or emphasize two-three written words though...
What the hell are you talking about, Asmo?We don't write paragraphs after paragraphs about how much we dislike their grumpiness.Some people write paragraphs while others post .gifs. Some people prefer words, others prefer pictures. As long as it is at all relevant to the discussion (or the derail, for that matter) at hand, I'm pretty "oh, whatever" about it. Huge images to substitute or emphasize two-three written words though...
To illustrate my point; earlier, I used a photo of a nasty VW-bus in relation to the percieved coolness of the sixties' hippies. Yes, I could have written "a 1950s VW bus, badly painted in flowers and rainbow colors and singers and featuring the word 'dick.'" In this case, however, a picture was more descriptive.
This here though, is just space filler:
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gurl.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F03%2Ftony-soprano.gif&hash=f9ba5b0e82194304cf0ebda4c677e1ca5e9036e3)
At least, that's the way I see it. Maybe there is more to that stuff, but if it requires an explanation rather than aiding the audience's understanding, then it sort of fails in a discussion/debate/argument setting, does it not?
Huge images to substitute or emphasize two-three written words though...It's not the size that matters! No one is looking at how many "pixels" it takes to say something, we are looking at the "feeling" behind the image. Yes, you posted a photo of a nasty VW-bus, it said more than you ever could about that time, my point..."a picture is worth a thousand words." And what's wrong with that? Maybe the gif is irrelevant to the conversation, but only to some, not to all.
I didn't read properly and missed that it was the word "dick." Then I zoomed in really close and stuck my face all close to my phone looking for the dick. I don't know what this adds to the conversation, but stop promising dick and not delivering. ;D
To illustrate my point; earlier, I used a photo of a nasty VW-bus in relation to the percieved coolness of the sixties' hippies. Yes, I could have written "a 1950s VW bus, badly painted in flowers and rainbow colors and singers and featuring the word 'dick.'"
I didn't read properly and missed that it was the word "dick." Then I zoomed in really close and stuck my face all close to my phone looking for the dick. I don't know what this adds to the conversation, but stop promising dick and not delivering. ;D
Haha hahahahaha ha.I didn't read properly and missed that it was the word "dick." Then I zoomed in really close and stuck my face all close to my phone looking for the dick. I don't know what this adds to the conversation, but stop promising dick and not delivering. ;D
Maybe he meant it metaphorically. As in, "I promise you dick", so really you shouldn't be surprised you found nothing ;D
I'm sorry I started the .gif thing again, Mags. I genuinely wasn't trying to complain about .gifs, I thought I was being a little cheeky and funny, but as sometimes happens, when I think I'm giving someone an affectionate poke in the ribs, I may be blacking their eyes instead. I apologize.My dear, Ali, don't apologize! :smileshake: :hug: ;)
Hello, Jimmy, I don't think we've met. It's nice to meet you. :)
I think I figured out I was a hippie AFTER I realized I was an atheist, by the time I figured it out, it was too late, I was addicted to this place, I couldn't leave....but now. :sad sigh: I don't know, I don't like this gif-ers persecution. >:( Six...yes! Six years fighting "the man" about it! I AM TIRED! >:(
Nice to meet you too! :hug:
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gurl.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F03%2Ftony-soprano.gif&hash=f9ba5b0e82194304cf0ebda4c677e1ca5e9036e3)
Probably one in science as well,,,,
Hmm... :thoughtful:QuoteDo we have a consensus on the .gif issue? No?
Well never mind the bothersome dialogue, I'll unilaterally declare one.
Some people like .gifs and they are free to post them, preferably in their quarantine zone.
Other members, aesthetes and lumps don't like .gifs and are free to complain about them.
I don't like Gifs but I do enjoy whingeing about them, it doesn't compensate entirely for the assault to my senses, yet it is a small recompense. And no I don't think anti .gif posts should be quarantined, a dedicated denunciation thread in the philosophy section would be appropriate though.
It's not a gif invasion, they're basically (mostly :P) restricted to their threads.There's no need to do this, anymore. I'll just take my shit somewhere else.
Our mission statement begins with: "...It is our goal to help dissolve negative stereotypes currently held towards atheists and facilitate productive dialogue with those of differing viewpoints..." and it ends with something like this: "...The complete freedom to simply be the person you want to be..." I just don't feel that, right now, here.
I've been lurking the "hippie" forums. Maybe it's time I join my kind.
I started another gif thread, this time in the Science section (http://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/index.php?topic=14518.0), because some things are better as gifs. ;)
You're very welcome to post there! :grin:
Mags. BPII is joking. And if he isn't he's a grumpy old fart and should be treated as such. I love your .gifs. But they do have a technical impact on some users. So please do not take BPIIs comments seriously. Nobody else does :lol:Do we have a consensus on the .gif issue? No?There's no need to do this, anymore. I'll just take my shit somewhere else.
Well never mind the bothersome dialogue, I'll unilaterally declare one.
Some people like .gifs and they are free to post them, preferably in their quarantine zone.
Other members, aesthetes and lumps don't like .gifs and are free to complain about them.
I don't like Gifs but I do enjoy whingeing about them, it doesn't compensate entirely for the assault to my senses, yet it is a small recompense. And no I don't think anti .gif posts should be quarantined, a dedicated denunciation thread in the philosophy section would be appropriate though. Probably one in science as well,,,, probably a thread in all the sections, they're just so wrong in so many ways.
Social issue: I think they are a gateway to gateway drugs,
Science: myopia is a growing problem - gifs
Philosophy: .gifism is a particularly ugly bastard child of hedonism and the stoic, combining the worst of both. Followers eschew natural colour music and self movement whilst embracing a pitifully diminished pallet, simpleton captioning and repetition, and repetition and repetition and it is a waste, such a waste.
A .jpg with millions of colours is so frugal with its bytes, the wastrel .gifest won't appreciate it though.
.png is a virtuous thing, the stationary .gif an anachronism, a shim at best.
Perhaps rehabilitation is possible but that would be for more patient souls than mine.
Our mission statement begins with: "...It is our goal to help dissolve negative stereotypes currently held towards atheists and facilitate productive dialogue with those of differing viewpoints..." and it ends with something like this: "...The complete freedom to simply be the person you want to be..." I just don't feel that, right now, here.
I've been lurking the "hippie" forums. Maybe it's time I join my kind.
:lol:Mags. BPII is joking. And if he isn't he's a grumpy old fart and should be treated as such. I love your .gifs. But they do have a technical impact on some users. So please do not take BPIIs comments seriously. Nobody else does :lol:Do we have a consensus on the .gif issue? No?There's no need to do this, anymore. I'll just take my shit somewhere else.
Well never mind the bothersome dialogue, I'll unilaterally declare one.
Some people like .gifs and they are free to post them, preferably in their quarantine zone.
Other members, aesthetes and lumps don't like .gifs and are free to complain about them.
I don't like Gifs but I do enjoy whingeing about them, it doesn't compensate entirely for the assault to my senses, yet it is a small recompense. And no I don't think anti .gif posts should be quarantined, a dedicated denunciation thread in the philosophy section would be appropriate though. Probably one in science as well,,,, probably a thread in all the sections, they're just so wrong in so many ways.
Social issue: I think they are a gateway to gateway drugs,
Science: myopia is a growing problem - gifs
Philosophy: .gifism is a particularly ugly bastard child of hedonism and the stoic, combining the worst of both. Followers eschew natural colour music and self movement whilst embracing a pitifully diminished pallet, simpleton captioning and repetition, and repetition and repetition and it is a waste, such a waste.
A .jpg with millions of colours is so frugal with its bytes, the wastrel .gifest won't appreciate it though.
.png is a virtuous thing, the stationary .gif an anachronism, a shim at best.
Perhaps rehabilitation is possible but that would be for more patient souls than mine.
Our mission statement begins with: "...It is our goal to help dissolve negative stereotypes currently held towards atheists and facilitate productive dialogue with those of differing viewpoints..." and it ends with something like this: "...The complete freedom to simply be the person you want to be..." I just don't feel that, right now, here.
I've been lurking the "hippie" forums. Maybe it's time I join my kind.
What the hell are you talking about, Asmo?Am I being unclear?
Everyone here knows you're grumpy and no one has a problem with that! ---I don't mean No one, I mean, no one!While like pretty much everyone else I do care about the others' opinion of me, ultimately, their problem with me is their problem. If they have one, they are welcome to raise it. I will respond as constructively as I am able and, if I agree with their point, alter my behaviour accordingly.
It's not the size that matters!When is that ever true? The number of pixels is relevant as it determines the amount of screen space used.
No one is looking at how many "pixels" it takes to say something, we are looking at the "feeling" behind the image.I defer to my example. Whatever the "feeling" behind that .gif may be, its sentiment could have been said just as well without it.
Yes, you posted a photo of a nasty VW-bus, it said more than you ever could about that time, my point..."a picture is worth a thousand words." And what's wrong with that? Maybe the gif is irrelevant to the conversation, but only to some, not to all.When ten words are called for, one thousand is nine hundred and ninety too many. (For an example, think politics. I won't go into detail unless it's less obvious than I percieve.) It has to be said that in a discussion setting, pictures rarely produce quite so many words and the saying is pretty much bullshit case-by-case, although it becomes somewhat more profound in the larger scheme of things.
Maybe it requires an explanation from your side to understand how gifs becomes a problem when it comes to "computer stuff" that most of us don't understand..gif is a compressed graphics format. It's irrelevant outside the context of computer stuff. As such, any and all problems with .gifs relate to computers.
I understand it creates a problem to those with slow internet, but that's not my problemNot really. .gifs are of tiny file size compared to their frame size.
it was for a while when I had dial-up internet, but I didn't resort to "aiding the audience's understanding," to solve it. I simply got faster internet, problem solved.Aiding the audience's understanding is something you do to avoid miscommunitcation and misunderstanding, not to download torrents faster. For instance, if we were discussing centripetal force and I wanted to illustrate my point, I could use an image or two to do that:
...Also, I don't want to debate you.I have a relatively high threshold for emotional distress due to external stimuli. If that is indeed what's stopping you, bring it on. I'll be OK. And even if I'm not, you won't see it.
I don't want to see you cry. >:(
Ha! ;DI didn't read properly and missed that it was the word "dick." Then I zoomed in really close and stuck my face all close to my phone looking for the dick. I don't know what this adds to the conversation, but stop promising dick and not delivering. ;D
Maybe he meant it metaphorically. As in, "I promise you dick", so really you shouldn't be surprised you found nothing ;D
I'm sorry I started the .gif thing again, Mags. I genuinely wasn't trying to complain about .gifs, I thought I was being a little cheeky and funny, but as sometimes happens, when I think I'm giving someone an affectionate poke in the ribs, I may be blacking their eyes instead. I apologize.Me, I think it's good. Apparently, it's a resurrected issue, but I can't seem to remember having joined the fray the last time(s).
The. gifs lead to the discussion being dropped or derailed.—I also don’t see this as a problem, because eventually we go back to the topic.Not speaking for any one else here, but I have dropped a discussion or two or just never entered into them due to the excessive use of images.
“.gif is of tiny file size compared to their frame size.” —I don’t know what this means either, so it will not make me stop posting them.This means that if you compare the on-screen size of a .gif (Its number og pixels) to its file size (The number of bytes), .gif yields a smaller file compared to, say, .jpeg.
In my realm, however, some of us want to know how someone feels about something, why someone feels that way, and even if you don’t want to know, we will tell people how we feel—Yes, with a .gif!I'm back to my point of it requiring an explanation being a sign that it fails at the intended task. How am I supposed to know how you feel from an out-of-context cutout of some B-actor, whos lips are often not moving in a way required to say whatever it says in the subtitles?
I know, feelings, well…they “bother” some people. We also use .gifs to help the audience understand something, to avoid miscommunication and misunderstandings. —But then, again, sometimes .gifs do that—They “download torrents of emotions, and fast.” In my realm, that’s good. Some of us like reaction .gifs: sad, scared, serious, shocked, sigh, etc., because sometimes a smiley is not enough. :smileshake:My problem with those is that, as stated above, they fail to convey the poster's emotional state accurately more times than not.
Look, I wouldn’t go to a “serious forum filled with intellectuals” and post a dancing hippie .gif. Well, maybe I would, but I’m sure they would ban me, and fast. This is a more relaxed forum that’s why I do what I do with the .gifs. —If people hate my style, well, I’m sure it will be appreciated somewhere else.Why not just take the "If they hate my style - fuck 'em" stance? Legislating taste, so to speak, even my own, is a concept I, for one, oppose. That doesn't mean, however, that any-one's style should be above reproach.
That’s about .gifs, now, about #3: The way we treat each other and where this place is going.Also, He's an equal opportunity Asmo. He's Asmo-ish to everyone He meets.
Like Claire, I also think this place is cliquey and that can be intimidating to new members. When I came here, Asmo, Tank, OldGit and BCE were nice to me, and talked to me. I learned from them how to make people feel welcomed. :secrets1:--I like Asmo, even if we disagree on things. He has unique way of communicating, and I like it.
I keep talking about Crow because him leaving us is the reason Claire started this thread. He made this place what it is—good or bad—and we just let him go. Someone said, “Our community might be tighter knit than those of other larger forums.” If that’s the case, how come only Claire and I have emailed him? Are these “fake” relationships? We come here every day, talk to each other, we get to know each other, and when someone says he/she is not happy here, do we listen? Or do we say, if you don’t like it leave? I think Crow tried to tell us things, and we weren’t listening.Well... If someone tells me they are done with me, I will respect that and stop trying to make contact. That does not mean that the relationship we had was fake or meant little, just that your freedom to walk away is not contingent on my agreeing with that decision or understanding it. (Yes, I'm a very easy person to break up with; there is no drama, just a wish of luck and a goodbye.)
Some are good at dividing and subtracting. Others are good at adding and multiplying. We’ve had a good balance of both that’s why this place has lasted 10 years. Both are important, like salt and sugar. Too much sugar complicates your diabetes and too much salt complicates your hypertension. Let’s try to keep it balanced so that everyone can be happy.Quoted for sensibility.
I haven’t posted any .gifs, so far, it has been difficult, and I’m not happy, but sometimes we have to do things we don’t like to make sure relationships last.I must admit, that's a bit of a foreign concept to me. Making sure the relationships last, that is. Life is dynamic. Things change. People come and go. Sometimes we are sad to see them leave, saometimes happy. Other times still, we just don't care. That's... Life.
And just look at how much I’ve had to write when I could’ve just said all this with maybe just 3 .gifs! >:( >:( >:(Well, if you did say it in three .gifs, we would not have had this conversation because I would not have understood what you wanted to say.
I also appreciate the effort Asmo made by posting two of them! ;D
I think that HAF is a nice cozy place for atheists and the occasional non-atheist. It is a bit conservative, in a sense that we like to keep the way things are and don't really appreciate members who "Rock the Boat". There i nothing against it, but it makes HAF perhaps a bit boring. Sure, there are the occasional interesting discussions, but our most active threads are limited to just a few and are most likely not very interesting for attracting new members (like "Ban the poster above you", "Games of Thrones", the GIF warning thread, etc.). I don't want to sound pessimistic, because we have wonderful members at HAF ("No One" included). HAF will somehow survive, but might need some minor changes to remain popular (if we want that, of course ;)).I agree.
Can't say I really care about that.The. gifs lead to the discussion being dropped or derailed.—I also don’t see this as a problem, because eventually we go back to the topic.Not speaking for any one else here, but I have dropped a discussion or two or just never entered into them due to the excessive use of images.
This is not correct. At least it's more likely to not be correct than correct. If we were to look at a one frame .gif and compare that to a .jpg of the same size, then usually, a gif could be smaller (depending on the color depth of the .jpg and the level of compression), but let's look at these two images:Quote“.gif is of tiny file size compared to their frame size.” —I don’t know what this means either, so it will not make me stop posting them.This means that if you compare the on-screen size of a .gif (Its number og pixels) to its file size (The number of bytes), .gif yields a smaller file compared to, say, .jpeg.
In layman's terms, you can put more .gifs on a USB memory stick than you can .jpegs (can sometimes be different for multi-frame, or animated .gifs), .gifs generally load faster too, but suffer from degraded image quality.
I've noticed several times where you've missed the points of jokes in the jokes thread, I can't be sure if you were serious, being pedantic, or just stirring up shit, but I also have the example you gave of James Gandolfini in his role as Tony Soprano, and you acted like it meant far less than the image implied. There is a context with the .gif that is built up by more than just an animated guy with text on the image.QuoteIn my realm, however, some of us want to know how someone feels about something, why someone feels that way, and even if you don’t want to know, we will tell people how we feel—Yes, with a .gif!I'm back to my point of it requiring an explanation being a sign that it fails at the intended task. How am I supposed to know how you feel from an out-of-context cutout of some B-actor, whos lips are often not moving in a way required to say whatever it says in the subtitles?
Some .gifs are just emoticons of varying sizes, like this one:
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages4.fanpop.com%2Fimage%2Fphotos%2F23400000%2Fanimated-gifs-the-simpsons-23490891-160-160.gif&hash=81c9b884ed9172a001f4dfaf3d447833d6fbf601)
In proper context, they are OK, if a bit large and blinky-flashy. They rarely convey the actual state of the speaker's fight or flight reflex though, and as such, I can't see how they describe their feelings more accurately than words along the lines of "Gah! I'm outa here!"
I disagree a lot with that. You're failure to interpret what is being expressed is not the same thing as the .gif failing to convey the poster's emotional state. Have you considered that maybe you don't understand what is being conveyed rather that it not conveying it? If you ask me about each one of the .gifs I've used, I could explain each one to you. I know at least some people that have no problem understanding what is being conveyed. Maybe it's just a language you don't understand.QuoteI know, feelings, well…they “bother” some people. We also use .gifs to help the audience understand something, to avoid miscommunication and misunderstandings. —But then, again, sometimes .gifs do that—They “download torrents of emotions, and fast.” In my realm, that’s good. Some of us like reaction .gifs: sad, scared, serious, shocked, sigh, etc., because sometimes a smiley is not enough. :smileshake:My problem with those is that, as stated above, they fail to convey the poster's emotional state accurately more times than not.
I would have understood it.QuoteAnd just look at how much I’ve had to write when I could’ve just said all this with maybe just 3 .gifs! >:( >:( >:(Well, if you did say it in three .gifs, we would not have had this conversation because I would not have understood what you wanted to say.
I also appreciate the effort Asmo made by posting two of them! ;D
Can't say I really care about that.We are in agreement there.
This is not correct. At least it's more likely to not be correct than correct. If we were to look at a one frame .gif and compare that to a .jpg of the same size, then usually, a gif could be smaller (depending on the color depth of the .jpg and the level of compression), but let's look at these two images:I did say "multi-frame" there somewhere, did I not?
<Pics/>
The .gif is 8.08 MB while the .jpg is 95.1 KB (at least they were before I uploaded them). This means, that I could put 80 of these .jpg's for every .gif. I.E.: I can fit more .jpg's on a USB memory stick than I can .gifs.
I've noticed several times where you've missed the points of jokes in the jokes thread, I can't be sure if you were serious, being pedantic, or just stirring up shit, but I also have the example you gave of James Gandolfini in his role as Tony Soprano, and you acted like it meant far less than the image implied.The image does not imply much, especially to someone who first needs to ask "James who in the role as what?"
...Which doesn't even convey all the meaning in the .gif, I just don't want to spend a bunch of time typing out what can more easily be said in an animated image. Or I could just post a .gif.I'm not saying that your point is invalid, but I don't see how it takes precedence over my point about a thousand words often being nine hundred and ninety more than needed. Why would you over-interprete some animated image like that?
Given the choice, I would post the .gif, while I assume that you wouldn't. I think either is fine. Apparently you don't think either is fine, and so you keep expressing that you don't like .gifs except in specific and limited contexts and usages. And that is fine too, but it's wrong to say that what a .gif says can just as easily be said in a brief amount of text. Sure, some sentiments expressed in .gifs. can be expressed in a short sentence, but I think those cases are rarer.I do, in fact, think that expressing oneself through words or art or blinking your eyes in morse code is fine. What I am against, in a dialogue setting, is leaving more room for interpretation in your expression than absolutely necessary. Clarity has a high stock price in my portfolio, and I do try to be consistent in explaining or expanding the points I've conceyed too poorly to be understood. That can go both ways though; overstating is just as bad as understating.
Text is just text and tone and emotions are not accurately conveyed, this is a widely known problem with text communication. But some of the unspoken visual cues that can be expressed in .gifs, which don't fix the entire problem, but can help to clarify tone and emotion.Unspoken visual cues..? In a long-distance message based delayed-response dialogue? Sure... Why not?
I disagree a lot with that. You're failure to interpret what is being expressed is not the same thing as the .gif failing to convey the poster's emotional state. Have you considered that maybe you don't understand what is being conveyed rather that it not conveying it? If you ask me about each one of the .gifs I've used, I could explain each one to you. I know at least some people that have no problem understanding what is being conveyed. Maybe it's just a language you don't understand.No, me being a failure is not the same as a .gif being a failure. I'm a far more complex entity than it.
I would have understood it.Would you, though? I'm tempted to make my next response in images to get this thing accuracy-measured.
But it's still not often correct. In fact, it's nearly almost always the opposite of the way you presented it.QuoteThis is not correct. At least it's more likely to not be correct than correct. If we were to look at a one frame .gif and compare that to a .jpg of the same size, then usually, a gif could be smaller (depending on the color depth of the .jpg and the level of compression), but let's look at these two images:I did say "multi-frame" there somewhere, did I not?
<Pics/>
The .gif is 8.08 MB while the .jpg is 95.1 KB (at least they were before I uploaded them). This means, that I could put 80 of these .jpg's for every .gif. I.E.: I can fit more .jpg's on a USB memory stick than I can .gifs.
In layman's terms, you can put more .gifs on a USB memory stick than you can .jpegs (can sometimes be different for multi-frame, or animated .gifs), .gifs generally load faster too, but suffer from degraded image quality.The same image saved as .jpg is the 95.1 KB files size, but as a .gif it's 133 KB. So even in single frame files, with normal .jpg compression settings, .jps are almost always smaller than gifs at the same frame size. It's also not just sometimes different with multiframe .jpgs or .gifs. It's not really a big deal, but it is bad information to perpetuate.
True, to someone who doesn't get it, it doesn't really offer much information. Just like if you tried talking to me French, but I wouldn't go around saying that speaking French doesn't really mean anything because I don't understand it.QuoteI've noticed several times where you've missed the points of jokes in the jokes thread, I can't be sure if you were serious, being pedantic, or just stirring up shit, but I also have the example you gave of James Gandolfini in his role as Tony Soprano, and you acted like it meant far less than the image implied.The image does not imply much, especially to someone who first needs to ask "James who in the role as what?"
I wouldn't consider it "over-interpreting" the animated image if it serves to convey to me what they meant by its usage.Quote...Which doesn't even convey all the meaning in the .gif, I just don't want to spend a bunch of time typing out what can more easily be said in an animated image. Or I could just post a .gif.I'm not saying that your point is invalid, but I don't see how it takes precedence over my point about a thousand words often being nine hundred and ninety more than needed. Why would you over-interprete some animated image like that?
Yes, good communication takes both sides, and there is no magic bullet. The point I'm trying to make, is to stop trying to berate or brow beat those that choose to communicate in a way that you don't really like just because you don't like it. If you don't understand the usages of the animated .gifs, that's fine, I also don't understand a lot of things, that's a problem with communication in general, not just in the topic at hand.QuoteGiven the choice, I would post the .gif, while I assume that you wouldn't. I think either is fine. Apparently you don't think either is fine, and so you keep expressing that you don't like .gifs except in specific and limited contexts and usages. And that is fine too, but it's wrong to say that what a .gif says can just as easily be said in a brief amount of text. Sure, some sentiments expressed in .gifs. can be expressed in a short sentence, but I think those cases are rarer.I do, in fact, think that expressing oneself through words or art or blinking your eyes in morse code is fine. What I am against, in a dialogue setting, is leaving more room for interpretation in your expression than absolutely necessary. Clarity has a high stock price in my portfolio, and I do try to be consistent in explaining or expanding the points I've conceyed too poorly to be understood. That can go both ways though; overstating is just as bad as understating.
Yep.QuoteText is just text and tone and emotions are not accurately conveyed, this is a widely known problem with text communication. But some of the unspoken visual cues that can be expressed in .gifs, which don't fix the entire problem, but can help to clarify tone and emotion.Unspoken visual cues..? In a long-distance message based delayed-response dialogue? Sure... Why not?
I get it, it's not something that you understand. The point I'm trying to make is that just because you don't understand it, it doesn't mean that is doesn't mean something. You keep expressing that just because you personally do not understand something, that it's the failure of the thing and don't seem to consider that the failure could be on your end. Again, if people are speaking in French, I don't go around telling them their preferred form of communication is useless because I don't speak French.QuoteI disagree a lot with that. You're failure to interpret what is being expressed is not the same thing as the .gif failing to convey the poster's emotional state. Have you considered that maybe you don't understand what is being conveyed rather that it not conveying it? If you ask me about each one of the .gifs I've used, I could explain each one to you. I know at least some people that have no problem understanding what is being conveyed. Maybe it's just a language you don't understand.No, me being a failure is not the same as a .gif being a failure. I'm a far more complex entity than it.
My not understanding what is being conveyed was actually made into a broader-context point, at least twice; if it requires an explanation, it fails at its intended task. The same is true of words, just not as often in my experience.
But you don't seem to be good at it. I would and do understand Mags' usages. You can't just go and pick some random images and pretend like that's the same thing that we are doing. Because it's not what we are doing (at least not all the time).QuoteI would have understood it.Would you, though? I'm tempted to make my next response in images to get this thing accuracy-measured.
I must not speak gif either because I never would have gotten all that out of that Tony Soprano gif. I think my "problem" is that I always think that gifs are relatively light hearted throwaway "comments." I find them hard to take seriously. Which is fine if they aren't meant seriously, but is a breakdown of communication if you're trying to say "I'm feeling volitle and will react negatively if you mess with me" and I see it as "oh, he's teasing me back with this light hearted little gif! I should keep teasing because here we are, the two of us, having fun and throwing around gifs!"I think even the Tony Soprano gif can be taken as a joke in most contexts. To me, most things are light hearted, no need to get upset over conversations. Sometimes I mock being upset about things I'm not really upset about, I think it's funny for people to get upset over some things, and I like to sometimes play like I am. Usually I try to be so extreme that it's obvious that I'm joking. If I were to ever use that .gif, it would be in the context of being fake upset for humor.
Which is not to say people shouldn't use them, just try not to take it to heart if I'm giflexic and think we're all kidding and having fun when you're not. Imma be honest, if you need me to know that I'm upsetting you, you're going to have to use words to tell me, because otherwise if I am going to start to try to interpret which gifs are silly and which ones are serious, well, I don't know how to tell.
But it's still not often correct. In fact, it's nearly almost always the opposite of the way you presented it.The point is yours.
The same image saved as .jpg is the 95.1 KB files size, but as a .gif it's 133 KB. So even in single frame files, with normal .jpg compression settings, .jps are almost always smaller than gifs at the same frame size. It's also not just sometimes different with multiframe .jpgs or .gifs. It's not really a big deal, but it is bad information to perpetuate.
True, to someone who doesn't get it, it doesn't really offer much information. Just like if you tried talking to me French, but I wouldn't go around saying that speaking French doesn't really mean anything because I don't understand it.But it does. In a setting of you having a dialogue with me, it certainly does.
I wouldn't consider it "over-interpreting" the animated image if it serves to convey to me what they meant by its usage.But what if it serves to convey more? Or less? You can't look an image up in a dictionary to clarify, can you?
Yes, good communication takes both sides, and there is no magic bullet. The point I'm trying to make, is to stop trying to berate or brow beat those that choose to communicate in a way that you don't really like just because you don't like it. If you don't understand the usages of the animated .gifs, that's fine, I also don't understand a lot of things, that's a problem with communication in general, not just in the topic at hand.To clarify, I was neither berating nor brow beating any one; merely standing my ground on an issue I honestly don't even consider important.
Yep.By the way, and in the spirit of clarification, there was no sarcasm or double/shadow meaning in my "Sure... Why not," in case any was percieved. If such things are important to you in a conversation like this, then sure [as in certainly], why not? [as in OK]
I get it, it's not something that you understand. The point I'm trying to make is that just because you don't understand it, it doesn't mean that is doesn't mean something. You keep expressing that just because you personally do not understand something, that it's the failure of the thing and don't seem to consider that the failure could be on your end. Again, if people are speaking in French, I don't go around telling them their preferred form of communication is useless because I don't speak French.Not at all. I'm professing no absolute truths here, merely stating what applies to matters concerning my own sweet self. I assumed it was implicitly clear... Perhaps not. For the rest of it, and in light of the aforementioned, your point has been answered.
But you don't seem to be good at it. I would and do understand Mags' usages. You can't just go and pick some random images and pretend like that's the same thing that we are doing. Because it's not what we are doing (at least not all the time).Oh, my process in such cases (where evidence has to be measurable and completely without my own opinion bias) is far more expansive than a google search for "animated .gifs" It would likely take me a crew of at least three, myself included, and at least a day to compile such a response.
I get it, some of the users here really don't like animated .gifs. That's great for them. I've cut back on my animated .gif usage and even often post in the properly quarantined area. I'm not going to stop completely or only post in the quarantined area, but I will keep my usages limited and try my best to respect other people's preferences while still expressing myself as I feel is best. See? In this discussion I've only posted images as examples and kept to your expressed communication preferences.I think this discussion has been great. The images used in it were also largely on toipic. Personally, I'd have used some creative tags on the two larger ones, such as widht= and height=, but since we actually seem to have accomplished something with the help of those, who the fuck cares?
think even the Tony Soprano gif can be taken as a joke in most contexts. To me, most things are light hearted, no need to get upset over conversations. Sometimes I mock being upset about things I'm not really upset about, I think it's funny for people to get upset over some things, and I like to sometimes play like I am. Usually I try to be so extreme that it's obvious that I'm joking. If I were to ever use that .gif, it would be in the context of being fake upset for humor.I just used it as an example. Honestly, I had no idea who this Soprano fellow was until I googled him like... Today. I think I might have seen a tail end of an episode or two of that series, but never bothered to learn the names.
Most .gifs are silly by their nature, though. Like the example that I gave to Asmo that I got from a reddit forum called "wheredidthesodago" that makes .gifs from silly infomercials. As for communication problems, that's normal for all forms of communication. I think it's best for everyone to first make sure there is understanding before getting upset, because usually, people don't intend to upset others, when they do intend to upset others, it's best not to let them.Yes... I can't remember the last time I intended to upset someone, or even provoke with my words. The last time I did, however... In person? Earlier today. Refugee-related politics, you know...
But it does. In a setting of you having a dialogue with me, it certainly does.Aye, which is why in this conversation with you I have refrained from using them. I understand that position and am not arguing against it. I guess my point was just that the word choices you used made it look like a universal dislike. And I don't think even a .gif could have clarified that.
Because normal people often say things they don't mean to mean things they didn't say, I always have to thoroughly analyze all forms of communication in an attempt to make sure that I understand what they are saying. I don't see looking at a .gif and trying to interpret all its possible meanings any more work than what I do with text.QuoteI wouldn't consider it "over-interpreting" the animated image if it serves to convey to me what they meant by its usage.But what if it serves to convey more? Or less? You can't look an image up in a dictionary to clarify, can you?
I don't understand why it would be called standing your ground, not is attacking not using .gifs. You might see why seeing so many posters so often talking about hating/disliking .gifs can be seen and berating and/or brow beating. I accept that you don't intend to, but it's hard to see it as anything but.QuoteYes, good communication takes both sides, and there is no magic bullet. The point I'm trying to make, is to stop trying to berate or brow beat those that choose to communicate in a way that you don't really like just because you don't like it. If you don't understand the usages of the animated .gifs, that's fine, I also don't understand a lot of things, that's a problem with communication in general, not just in the topic at hand.To clarify, I was neither berating nor brow beating any one; merely standing my ground on an issue I honestly don't even consider important.
Also, I was just answering your questions, no sarcasm either. I know that .gifs are not that big of an issue, but I happen to like .gifs and happen to dislike one or two posts a day of people posting about how they don't like them. I feel like if someone is going to put up one side (being against .gifs), then someone should present an alternative opinion on the issue.QuoteYep.By the way, and in the spirit of clarification, there was no sarcasm or double/shadow meaning in my "Sure... Why not," in case any was percieved. If such things are important to you in a conversation like this, then sure [as in certainly], why not? [as in OK]
Fair enough.QuoteI get it, it's not something that you understand. The point I'm trying to make is that just because you don't understand it, it doesn't mean that is doesn't mean something. You keep expressing that just because you personally do not understand something, that it's the failure of the thing and don't seem to consider that the failure could be on your end. Again, if people are speaking in French, I don't go around telling them their preferred form of communication is useless because I don't speak French.Not at all. I'm professing no absolute truths here, merely stating what applies to matters concerning my own sweet self. I assumed it was implicitly clear... Perhaps not. For the rest of it, and in light of the aforementioned, your point has been answered.
:lol: Sounds like a lot of work. To be fair, I think .gifs are most useful when augmenting text communication.QuoteBut you don't seem to be good at it. I would and do understand Mags' usages. You can't just go and pick some random images and pretend like that's the same thing that we are doing. Because it's not what we are doing (at least not all the time).Oh, my process in such cases (where evidence has to be measurable and completely without my own opinion bias) is far more expansive than a google search for "animated .gifs" It would likely take me a crew of at least three, myself included, and at least a day to compile such a response.
Here is how it woiuld work: I would write a response in words, as precisely as possible. I'd let one of my crew read it and interprete it back to me. In case of imprecisions, back to square zero. Then, I would have that person express what's been said in the form of images, then give them to the second (poreferably more than one) crew member to interprete. In case of them largely agreeing, we'd have a winner. If not, back to square one or square zero, depending on the gravity of the errors underway.
Honestly, I care about it. Not much, but I do care about it. As I said earlier, I understand that it's not a big issue, but I'd be lying if I said that it doesn't bother me at all. It bothers me a little, but I don't think I'll ever get upset about it. It does make me feel uncomfortable to see so much of it, and to comfort myself, I try to provide a reasonable angle from my side of the issue.QuoteI get it, some of the users here really don't like animated .gifs. That's great for them. I've cut back on my animated .gif usage and even often post in the properly quarantined area. I'm not going to stop completely or only post in the quarantined area, but I will keep my usages limited and try my best to respect other people's preferences while still expressing myself as I feel is best. See? In this discussion I've only posted images as examples and kept to your expressed communication preferences.I think this discussion has been great. The images used in it were also largely on toipic. Personally, I'd have used some creative tags on the two larger ones, such as widht= and height=, but since we actually seem to have accomplished something with the help of those, who the fuck cares?
It is nice to have a conversation where it feels like I am being listened to, I just hope that I am listening properly.QuoteMost .gifs are silly by their nature, though. Like the example that I gave to Asmo that I got from a reddit forum called "wheredidthesodago" that makes .gifs from silly infomercials. As for communication problems, that's normal for all forms of communication. I think it's best for everyone to first make sure there is understanding before getting upset, because usually, people don't intend to upset others, when they do intend to upset others, it's best not to let them.Yes... I can't remember the last time I intended to upset someone, or even provoke with my words. The last time I did, however... In person? Earlier today. Refugee-related politics, you know...
I think mutual understanding of each other's ways of expression is indeed the key, and it's discussions like this one that can actually get us moving in the general direction thereof.
I guess my point was just that the word choices you used made it look like a universal dislike. And I don't think even a .gif could have clarified that.Ah, yes. Impersonality implies universality, where using the word "I" too often implies self-centeredness... Implications, while useful, are a bitch.
I imagine that soon there will be a site that will make not only looking up animated .gifs to use easier, but can also be used to look up what they mean. Maybe it will just be for fun, but really, entertainment is a big reason why I read and post here.Yes, please. We who lack any real point of reference on this matter would appreciate it. Even uncyclopedia is better than nocyclopedia as knowing something is bullshit is better than not knowing even that much.
I don't understand why it would be called standing your ground, not is attacking not using .gifs. You might see why seeing so many posters so often talking about hating/disliking .gifs can be seen and berating and/or brow beating. I accept that you don't intend to, but it's hard to see it as anything but.In my world, it was much simpler; I raised a point, it got challenged, I defended it. For my part, I don't really see how I could have been percieved as berating any one as I named absolutely no names nor pointed any fingers. I did not even imply that mental finger pointing may have occurred... Because indeed it did not occur.
I feel like if someone is going to put up one side (being against .gifs), then someone should present an alternative opinion on the issue.And you did a fine job at that. I found your replies informative in several areas.
:lol: Sounds like a lot of work. To be fair, I think .gifs are most useful when augmenting text communication.A lot of work, yes. Which is why I rarely do such experiments for fun and pleasure. When I do, however, I'm nothing if not maniacally thorough.
Honestly, I care about it. Not much, but I do care about it. As I said earlier, I understand that it's not a big issue, but I'd be lying if I said that it doesn't bother me at all. It bothers me a little, but I don't think I'll ever get upset about it. It does make me feel uncomfortable to see so much of it, and to comfort myself, I try to provide a reasonable angle from my side of the issue.That's fair. I suppose I should have said "I don't care" in stead of "who cares?"
I don't think I can properly analogize how such an unimportant thing can still end up being bothersome, and I can't really think of anything that doesn't make it seem more serious than it really is. So, it does bother me a bit to see anti-gif stuff so often, even if some of it is just jokes.
It is nice to have a conversation where it feels like I am being listened to, I just hope that I am listening properly.I think so. You are not avoiding my points, nor are you prone to understanding them in a way that best suits your bias.
Ah, yes. Impersonality implies universality, where using the word "I" too often implies self-centeredness... Implications, while useful, are a bitch.Well, I think that's resolved then.
I suppose I could develop something, the underlying functionality wouldn't be that difficult. Getting content and traffic will be the tougher part.QuoteI imagine that soon there will be a site that will make not only looking up animated .gifs to use easier, but can also be used to look up what they mean. Maybe it will just be for fun, but really, entertainment is a big reason why I read and post here.Yes, please. We who lack any real point of reference on this matter would appreciate it. Even uncyclopedia is better than nocyclopedia as knowing something is bullshit is better than not knowing even that much.
In my world, it was much simpler; I raised a point, it got challenged, I defended it. For my part, I don't really see how I could have been percieved as berating any one as I named absolutely no names nor pointed any fingers. I did not even imply that mental finger pointing may have occurred... Because indeed it did not occur.I think I understand that, perspectives being what they are.
And you did a fine job at that. I found your replies informative in several areas.Cool, it was informative for me as well.
That's fair. I suppose I should have said "I don't care" in stead of "who cares?"That makes sense.
**Unspoken visual cues..? In a long-distance message based delayed-response dialogue? Sure... Why not?
**I think this discussion has been great.
**I think mutual understanding of each other's ways of expression is indeed the key, and it's discussions like this one that can actually get us moving in the general direction thereof.
"I am not to be messed with and I will defend myself if you really want to take up an issue, but it won't be a polite exchange because I will be volatile, violent, and vitriolic when I feel like I am being disrespected. I'm upset that you would even imply something like what you just said, so you better tread lightly or drop it immediately..."That’s the same “feeling” I got from the Tony Soprano gif. :smilenod:
I forgot to mention...In other words, it sounded as if something was escalating, and rapidly. It didn’t sounds like a question, it sounded…something…like…between…a dangerous dare and a threat. :shifty:
Very nice use of a GIF, Asmo.
You're giving me the "feel" of..."A Mafia "Representative."
I never would've guessed that "feeling" behind the words you wrote. I appreciate your honesty.
Professor Fancy Pants, can I apply to the "Witness Protection Program?" --Like, right now?
I'll have to say that the conversation between Asmo and Davin was one of the more remarkable ones I've witnessed on the Internet. It exhibited, quite unexpectedly, lofty tones of civility. It should be taught in schools.Totally agree! :clapping:
I'll have to say that the conversation between Asmo and Davin was one of the more remarkable ones I've witnessed on the Internet. It exhibited, quite unexpectedly, lofty tones of civility. It should be taught in schools.I think we generally do manage to keep a civil tone in constructive disputes here on HAF. I like it that way.
I'll have to say that the conversation between Asmo and Davin was one of the more remarkable ones I've witnessed on the Internet. It exhibited, quite unexpectedly, lofty tones of civility. It should be taught in schools.I think we generally do manage to keep a civil tone in constructive disputes here on HAF. I like it that way.
Since the last high profile member 'retired' I have been doing a lot of thinking. Well, to be honest I was thinking about a lot of these things before he left but him leaving has re-energised the thoughts. I too have been thinking of leaving/retiring whatever the correct term is, for a while now and I have come incredibly close to. However, I have a kind of sentimental nostalgic streak about me and so I thought instead of just going I would open a thread that hopefully will be an honest an open area for people to discuss the forum and it's future. Maybe others don't think there is a problem, in which case that too can be said here. What I hope doesn't happen is it just turns into a moan about individuals or people take things too personally. I would like it to be constructively critical rather than just critical if that makes sense.
I have actually been in touch with Crow and if he allows me to, I can share some of his thoughts too but this really is about the bigger picture.
Anyway.......my thoughts and opinions.
1. We have lost too many regular members that created the content that kept this place going. Now, each may have their own reasons for leaving and yes people on forums do change but that isn't always the case and shouldn't necessarily be the norm. When I now look at the regular contributors on here, most of them I have on another form of network too so I no longer feel like I need to be here to keep in touch with people.
2. We're not getting many new active members. The ones who do join and start posting don't seem to be sticking around for very long. Part of the fun of forums for me is meeting new people, not just the ones I already know and getting to hear different points of view. It's almost become too cliquey for want of a better word and I think that is quit intimidating to new members. Maybe we could start spreading the message out and about a little more? It's certainly not the case that all atheist forums are low activity, I did a quick search and there are plenty of very active ones with lots of interesting topics and debates going on. What are they doing differently?
3. Recently I think it has been too heavily moderated for content. Anyone who seems to spark a little bit of debate seems to be got rid of very easily. Which I think also links back to number 2 also. Perhaps we do need some more argumentative characters once more to kick the debates into action. BTW I'm not equating uncivil with argumentative. I'm thinking more of the Stevil type character who was perfectly civil but often gave a different perspective.
4. Perhaps we need a discussion on what a forum like this is actually for? At the moment I feel like there isn't a difference between this and my facebook feed.
I appreciate any thoughts.
Over moderated? YesYes/No/Maybe/I don't know.
Nitpicky? Hell yes.Yes. Some people enjoy that sort of thing. I don't.
Intimidating to new members? Yes, I can see that.This place was intimidating to me when I came here 6 years ago, but I really wanted to be here so I stuck with it.
I came here to talk to differing people in a civil manner and felt that if I didn't agree with the regulars I should leave. I've seen it towards others as well.Been there, done that.
There have been many topics I would like to chime in on but it's not worth the nitpicking of words or demanding I justify my opinion like there has to be a winner at the end.Me too, I don't like all this "nitpicking" so I don't participate in those discussions.
I've been accused of trolling by a mod.That's not right. :eyebrow:
Until that mindset changes I'll just stick to the lounge until I just get bored enough and don't return.Please don't leave us. Too many have left this place already. :(
I agree with Glos that the moderation is not particularly heavy here.Thats "Gloucs" OG. "Glos" is an abbreviation for the family name.
I'm Salop now; until recently I was Hfds. Salop iseasier to say."Hfds"? Did you live in an Ikea or domething?
Herefordshire. Typical of a Gloucestershire yokel not to recognise the county next door.I'm an immigrant actually, but it is contagious. Glad I didn't move to The Forest, might have grown an extra finger and webs between my toes.
Glad I didn't move to The Forest, might have grown an extra finger and webs between my toes.
n 1928, Rubeus Hagrid was born in or near the Forest of Dean, where he developed his strong West Country accent.[3][4] The Forest of Dean once played host to Hermione and her parents during a camping trip for the summer holidays
A few days after Christmas in 1997, Hermione Granger would return to this location with Harry Potter and would camp in the forest during their Horcrux search, trying to avoid captivity and staying in one place for too long. Hermione and Harry would take it in turns to watch the tent for trouble sharing one wand between them. Whilst there, the forest was snowy, and its lake was frozen
So the forest is sort of a setting for an English "Deliverance" story. Instead of dueling banjos there would be dueling lutes, I suppose....Or the strongest moonshine dueling. :smilenod: :headbang:
So the forest is sort of a setting for an English "Deliverance" story. Instead of dueling banjos there would be dueling lutes, I suppose.Thanks, was trying to remember that film title, Ecurb!
...So, going back to the topic of "The future of the forum."
I'm glad Tom62 is back. I noticed he wasn't posting and I worried that he had also left us. I'm glad Gloucester and gentle_dissident joined us and stayed. I "spoke" with Bruno de la Pole and Crow and they are definitely not coming back. I've noticed that JJ and Claire haven't been around, does anyone know if they left us also? :(
~Just curious.
Edit:
I'm sorry, I forgot to include, No one. :sad sigh:
(It never gets old!) :smileshake:...So, going back to the topic of "The future of the forum."
I'm glad Tom62 is back. I noticed he wasn't posting and I worried that he had also left us. I'm glad Gloucester and gentle_dissident joined us and stayed. I "spoke" with Bruno de la Pole and Crow and they are definitely not coming back. I've noticed that JJ and Claire haven't been around, does anyone know if they left us also? :(
~Just curious.
Edit:
I'm sorry, I forgot to include, No one. :sad sigh:
No one bailed also? I don't mean no one, but No one. (That never gets old)
He said some wild stuff at times, but I liked it!
...So, going back to the topic of "The future of the forum."
I'm glad Tom62 is back. I noticed he wasn't posting and I worried that he had also left us.
...So, going back to the topic of "The future of the forum."
I'm glad Tom62 is back. I noticed he wasn't posting and I worried that he had also left us.
That is so sweet of you. But don't worry. I can't leave HAF, because I'm part of the furniture ;)
Which part?:lol:
I'm glad Gloucester and gentle_dissident joined us and stayed.It's good to not be unwanted.
Awwww. :hug:I'm glad Gloucester and gentle_dissident joined us and stayed.It's good to not be unwanted.
Which part?
I've noticed that JJ and Claire haven't been around, does anyone know if they left us also? :(I believe Claire went over to the States to visit JJ, so I guess they're.......busy? ::)
~Just curious.
I've noticed that JJ and Claire haven't been around, does anyone know if they left us also? :(I believe Claire went over to the States to visit JJ, so I guess they're.......busy? ::)
~Just curious.
It'd have to be a tallboy cupboard. :DThe Asmo is probably the concrete floor or some such... :???:
It'd have to be a tallboy cupboard. :DThe Asmo is probably the concrete floor or some such... :???:
It'd have to be a tallboy cupboard. :DThe Asmo is probably the concrete floor or some such... :???:
This is one thing I see that deters me from talking so much. TOO MUCH READING! That's why I'm never here. I take an hour just to catch up on what I've missed. The threads are too long and that might be why new members don't show up. It takes time to integrate into a forum and nobody wants to jump right in when there is literally hundreds of pages to read before you can figure out what the heck is going on.
Maybe we can post more new threads and keep them short and sweet. Because the pages themselves are even long enough to read. I haven't even read page 1 of THIS thread because I just wanted to put my input out there since I'm one of those members that don't show their face.
EDIT: And this is just me, but the way we keep up with the forum by just looking at the "unread replies to your posts" section is just exclusionary. I constantly go to dead or almost dead threads because it's the most convenient way to connect with the forum. I think it causes me to leave out other active threads and make me feel excluded when people talk about things from other threads I had no idea were active.
Also it creates a competing set of functions where I could go to the "Show new replies to your posts" or manually search the forum where they show the most recent post anyway. I hope that's not just me but I find the two functions really competitive.
Maybe we could get rid of that feature and just get used to a regular way of searching a forum?
What's it matter?Irony.
What's it matter?Irony.
Why, that too, of course. And various pottery type stuff. The urn containing the ashes of Mabus. He is that, also. Oh, the rigors of being Omni! :(It'd have to be a tallboy cupboard. :DThe Asmo is probably the concrete floor or some such... :???:
Hmm...I always thought of Your Greyness as something more like...a paperweight. :grin:
What's it matter?Irony.
I guess nobody took it serious then.
What's it matter?Irony.
I guess nobody took it serious then.
I do, but I don't agree. If there aren't a lot of discussions going on, the forum would be just dying.
What should you be reading to make you think you otherwise?What's it matter?Irony.
I guess nobody took it serious then.
I do, but I don't agree. If there aren't a lot of discussions going on, the forum would be just dying.
The forum is dying already from what I've read.
ClaireliontamerPeople's priorities and values change with time.
Mischievous Munchkin
Guardian of Reason
*****
Posts: 6760
"Retired"
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPCyTzEDWT8/VyUVxNVjGEI/AAAAAAAADeo/yfobeGjctbsyShufqn7UGftS3UTcQeXrgCLcB/s1600/back%2Bit%2Bup.gif)
When did that happen?
Not another one!
Why!?
:cryandrun:
Woah really? She didn't say anything, did she?Well, looks like she just did. :(
Claireliontamer
Mischievous Munchkin
Guardian of Reason
*****
Posts: 6760
"Retired"
Yeah, I guess so.ClaireliontamerPeople's priorities and values change with time.
Mischievous Munchkin
Guardian of Reason
*****
Posts: 6760
"Retired"
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPCyTzEDWT8/VyUVxNVjGEI/AAAAAAAADeo/yfobeGjctbsyShufqn7UGftS3UTcQeXrgCLcB/s1600/back%2Bit%2Bup.gif)
When did that happen?
Not another one!
Why!?
:cryandrun:
...
I PM'd Claire, and she confirmed that she and JJ are both taking a break from HAF. But she would be happy to hear from people on Facebook if they ever want to get in touch.Thank you for that, Firebird.
Thank you for that, Firebird.
I have a feeling we won't see you around here as much as we would like to in the future, you know your priorities are going to change as well...
Thank you for that, Firebird.
I have a feeling we won't see you around here as much as we would like to in the future, you know your priorities are going to change as well...
Yeah, I hear it all. "You'll never sleep again", "if you have any hobbies now get them done while there's time", etc etc. I'll do my best. Maybe at 4 am after the baby's stopped crying and I'm still wired and awake, so my posts may be a tad more bizarre. But fuck it, I'm looking forward to it anyway.
Ask me again in 2 months ;D
1. We have lost too many regular members that created the content that kept this place going. Now, each may have their own reasons for leaving and yes people on forums do change but that isn't always the case and shouldn't necessarily be the norm. When I now look at the regular contributors on here, most of them I have on another form of network too so I no longer feel like I need to be here to keep in touch with people.
2. We're not getting many new active members. The ones who do join and start posting don't seem to be sticking around for very long. Part of the fun of forums for me is meeting new people, not just the ones I already know and getting to hear different points of view. It's almost become too cliquey for want of a better word and I think that is quit intimidating to new members. Maybe we could start spreading the message out and about a little more? It's certainly not the case that all atheist forums are low activity, I did a quick search and there are plenty of very active ones with lots of interesting topics and debates going on. What are they doing differently?
3. Recently I think it has been too heavily moderated for content. Anyone who seems to spark a little bit of debate seems to be got rid of very easily. Which I think also links back to number 2 also. Perhaps we do need some more argumentative characters once more to kick the debates into action. BTW I'm not equating uncivil with argumentative. I'm thinking more of the Stevil type character who was perfectly civil but often gave a different perspective.
el like there isn't a difference between this and my facebook feed.
:therethere:
I wouldn't want you to go, Steeler. I learn from you. I think you have the guts to say things that a lot of us don't like to hear. We talk about "stuff" people tell us, and we compare how things look from the other side. --That's all. It's thanks to this place that we are able to talk...without killing each other over stuff that we say. :grin:
I understand what you're saying, when I came here, it was the opposite. I think most leaned to the right, and for those of us on the left...Well, I've never owned a gun, but if I had to use the right expression it would be: "There weren't enough bullets in the world!" I also wanted to leave, but Asmo...I never get tired of telling this story...He said to me, something like this..."You can leave, or stay and who knows, maybe you can persuade a few." But that's not easy either. :smileshake:
We are talking, Steeler. I think we're doing a great job.:therethere:
I wouldn't want you to go, Steeler. I learn from you. I think you have the guts to say things that a lot of us don't like to hear. We talk about "stuff" people tell us, and we compare how things look from the other side. --That's all. It's thanks to this place that we are able to talk...without killing each other over stuff that we say. :grin:
I understand what you're saying, when I came here, it was the opposite. I think most leaned to the right, and for those of us on the left...Well, I've never owned a gun, but if I had to use the right expression it would be: "There weren't enough bullets in the world!" I also wanted to leave, but Asmo...I never get tired of telling this story...He said to me, something like this..."You can leave, or stay and who knows, maybe you can persuade a few." But that's not easy either. :smileshake:
I'm not here to persuade anyone. I just like to talk, and admittedly, I am horrible at getting out what I'm trying to say via text. Absolutely horrible.
It's frustrating as hell when we have discussions like the one in the political forum, I feel like we aren't getting to each other as we would in person.
I think I'm perceived here totally different than I really am in person, and that is my fault. I'm no dummy, but not nearly as articulate as most here.
Please raise your hand...if you are articulate...You obviously counted on The Asmo having no hands, but you may have underestimated His newfound Orange brilliance. You see, He kidnapped a small child in order to facilitate His hand-raising, so;
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs2.quickmeme.com%2Fimg%2F39%2F39cd99d531aeccd977a99d03a3e23db2de8b698c537fd7416c629d3ff4ec777e.jpg&hash=1291ff8ea181c73ea8f14f42b542f8463c3ba3d6)
:lol:Please raise your hand...if you are articulate...You obviously counted on The Asmo having no hands, but you may have underestimated His newfound Orange brilliance. You see, He kidnapped a small child in order to facilitate His hand-raising, so;
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs2.quickmeme.com%2Fimg%2F39%2F39cd99d531aeccd977a99d03a3e23db2de8b698c537fd7416c629d3ff4ec777e.jpg&hash=1291ff8ea181c73ea8f14f42b542f8463c3ba3d6)
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi448.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fqq209%2FTejrinde%2FEmoticons%2FWave%2Fsmiley-raising-waving-hand.gif&hash=639ef4b81bf14bb41720550036951202008807e3)
Confirmation bias, also called confirmatory bias or myside bias, is the tendency to search for, interpret, favor, and recall information in a way that confirms one's preexisting beliefs or hypotheses, while giving disproportionately less consideration to alternative possibilities. It is a type of cognitive bias and a systematic error of inductive reasoning. People display this bias when they gather or remember information selectively, or when they interpret it in a biased way. The effect is stronger for emotionally charged issues and for deeply entrenched beliefs. People also tend to interpret ambiguous evidence as supporting their existing position. Biased search, interpretation and memory have been invoked to explain attitude polarization (when a disagreement becomes more extreme even though the different parties are exposed to the same evidence), belief perseverance (when beliefs persist after the evidence for them is shown to be false), the irrational primacy effect (a greater reliance on information encountered early in a series) and illusory correlation (when people falsely perceive an association between two events or situations.
Please raise your hand...if you are articulate...
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs2.quickmeme.com%2Fimg%2F39%2F39cd99d531aeccd977a99d03a3e23db2de8b698c537fd7416c629d3ff4ec777e.jpg&hash=1291ff8ea181c73ea8f14f42b542f8463c3ba3d6)
Not me. I always wonder if I'm being understood the way I want to be, and communicating
...The trick on a forum is to share the personal stuff and let people get to know you. Then when people have seen the non-controversial stuff you can bring the other stuff. People on-line are often a little primed to be trigger happy if they think their world is potentially being threatened.
Id like to hang around and continue to learn, even share very personal stuff, but it's hard when you are met with strong resistance from all angles.
...Same here. I type slower than most and my thoughts are a mile ahead of my fingers. Very frustrating. Those who have chatted with me on Skype will know what a machine gun mouth I have when I get going.
I'm not here to persuade anyone. I just like to talk, and admittedly, I am horrible at getting out what I'm trying to say via text. Absolutely horrible...
. . . if you listen to neuroscientists like Prof Susan Greenfield on the dangers of illegal drugs . . .
It is argued that we will never stamp out cannabis use, and therefore we should give up trying. But we will not stamp out murder or house break-ins or mugging, yet I've never heard an argument for freeing up police time by liberalising the law on these acts.
. . . if you listen to neuroscientists like Prof Susan Greenfield on the dangers of illegal drugs . . .
Greenfield seems to be willing to talk about things she really hasn't nailed down very well. For instance, she's asserted a link between the use of digital media and autism (http://deevybee.blogspot.com/2014/09/why-most-scientists-dont-take-susan.html). In that blog entry, the basis for her assertion is examined and found to be practically negligible.
Now, there are plenty of dangerous illegal drugs, but her stand against the legalization of cannabis (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2002/aug/18/drugs.drugsandalcohol) doesn't appear to be based on particularly sound evidence either, especially considering the very real harm that its continued criminalisation causes in societies around the world. In particular, I find it disgusting that she's willing to rhetorically equate cannabis use with murder, burglary and mugging.QuoteIt is argued that we will never stamp out cannabis use, and therefore we should give up trying. But we will not stamp out murder or house break-ins or mugging, yet I've never heard an argument for freeing up police time by liberalising the law on these acts.
In the states where it is legal, can you grow a plant legally, or is it like alcohol where you can't make your own?
I hadn't looked into growing because there's a 99% chance at least 2 of my 3 dogs will start eating it.
I assume it's going to be state by state with restrictions on selling.
You can make booze here, you just can't sell it.
I knew it! I knew it! ;DI hadn't looked into growing because there's a 99% chance at least 2 of my 3 dogs will start eating it.
I assume it's going to be state by state with restrictions on selling.
You can make booze here, you just can't sell it.
Grow it indoors! ;D I grew a couple years ago before I had kids, just for fun. Had them in a closet. I was amazed at how easy it was. I didn't go high tech or anything, just 2 potters, a cheap florescent grow light, and a little fan to simulate wind (supposed to make them stronger). Oh and a timer for the light obviously.
They turned out pretty good, or so my buddy that smoked it says. But Damn did it ever make my house smell like a skunks ass! :lol:
Oh Mags. If you only knew how much I used to love getting baked. I miss it so much too. It must be the after 40 mortality realization or something that kicks in when I'm stoned now. Bad thoughts, running out of air kind of feeling. Oh shit am I gonna die stoned?:worried:
Maybe I just need to get stoned with a different crowd. Lol
Oh Mags. If you only knew how much I used to love getting baked. I miss it so much too. It must be the after 40 mortality realization or something that kicks in when I'm stoned now. Bad thoughts, running out of air kind of feeling. Oh shit am I gonna die stoned?:worried:
Maybe I just need to get stoned with a different crowd. Lol
Huh...I don't know what you're talking about...
I've heard...stories...
...I've heard that sometimes it's like this:
To be, or not to be?
...Wait...
What was the question?
:scratch:
Oh Mags. If you only knew how much I used to love getting baked. I miss it so much too. It must be the after 40 mortality realization or something that kicks in when I'm stoned now. Bad thoughts, running out of air kind of feeling. Oh shit am I gonna die stoned?:worried:
Maybe I just need to get stoned with a different crowd. Lol
Huh...I don't know what you're talking about...
I've heard...stories...
...I've heard that sometimes it's like this:
To be, or not to be?
...Wait...
What was the question?
:scratch:
Yes. Lol.
One time long ago I....I mean somebody I knew, sat at a flashing red light in the middle of the night for who knows how long, waiting for it to turn green.
I'm not arguing that cannabis is completely harmless. My point is that by keeping it criminalized, governments are helping support criminal organizations. They are also continuing to cause people--cannabis users--who have done no harm to anybody (except possibly some harm to themselves) to suffer by being branded as criminals. It's absurd, especially considering the fact that cannabis actually has medical uses aside from its recreational aspect. In that piece, Greenfield ignores or dismisses these things, and pushes a narrative based on evidence she herself admits is of questionable value. In my opinion, when all the relevant factors are weighed, there is no sensible case to be made for keeping cannabis illegal.
Compañero Recusant, you've been on a roll with your posts, lately!
:grin:
What this forum needs is more fucking "Kow Bell"!Yes!! Yes!!! Yes!! :lol:
We haven't gotten an active new member in quite some time. :notsure:
We haven't gotten an active new member in quite some time. :notsure:
Maybe it had something to do with those bots driving traffic away from our humble little website.
One of us! One of us! One of us!We haven't gotten an active new member in quite some time. :notsure:
Maybe it had something to do with those bots driving traffic away from our humble little website.
Could be. Hopefully now that our dear Asmo is going to get that fixed more people will join. :smilenod:
One of us! One of us! One of us!We haven't gotten an active new member in quite some time. :notsure:
Maybe it had something to do with those bots driving traffic away from our humble little website.
Could be. Hopefully now that our dear Asmo is going to get that fixed more people will join. :smilenod:
We haven't gotten an active new member in quite some time. :notsure:
We haven't gotten an active new member in quite some time. :notsure:
Here are the current stats.
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimagizer.imageshack.us%2Fv2%2Fxq90%2F923%2Fu9kBFS.jpg&hash=f6ec5ec13c8995b218c17258173f4f6d8797bf5d)
There is a new member, "hebib-style", hasn't really said anything. Just signed up and never came back. I think people just sign up for the site once and leave as that is what I've observed.
I joined a few as well, however the wiggle room here is far superior to any other forum. This place can be woefully stagnant for extremely long periods, might be why the new comers tend to skedaddle without further ado.
If you want to find idiot theists to argue with go to facebook.
From my experience in chat rooms, those with a large amount of regulars tend to argue a lot. And they tend to stay if the atmosphere is very peaceful at first. If it happens to go the other way some time later, then the new member ignores that and ends up a regular chatter.The thing is with forums is survival. I've seen many implode. They implode mainly due to cliquism. We have avoided that in any significant form. It's why I joined as I'd put a lot of effort into other places only to see it flushed down the tube. That's why I detest the likes of Dredge who is just abusing the this place for his own pleasure.
I've only been to one small chat room but it was apart of a different website for anxiety. For a long time it was like HAF where we could have talks and not think anything about it. We even had a few romances going on but once a stubborn guy with no control over himself broke up with someone everything went down hill into taking sides and fights for months. I was even subject to personal attacks because I had it better than some people.
All in all is I'm saying that HAF has potential if any of this can be related to forums. Yeah the smaller chat had fights, but they all had anxiety which brings out aggression. I don't see that in anyone here.
From my experience in chat rooms, those with a large amount of regulars tend to argue a lot. And they tend to stay if the atmosphere is very peaceful at first. If it happens to go the other way some time later, then the new member ignores that and ends up a regular chatter.The thing is with forums is survival. I've seen many implode. They implode mainly due to cliquism. We have avoided that in any significant form. It's why I joined as I'd put a lot of effort into other places only to see it flushed down the tube. That's why I detest the likes of Dredge who is just abusing the this place for his own pleasure.
I've only been to one small chat room but it was apart of a different website for anxiety. For a long time it was like HAF where we could have talks and not think anything about it. We even had a few romances going on but once a stubborn guy with no control over himself broke up with someone everything went down hill into taking sides and fights for months. I was even subject to personal attacks because I had it better than some people.
All in all is I'm saying that HAF has potential if any of this can be related to forums. Yeah the smaller chat had fights, but they all had anxiety which brings out aggression. I don't see that in anyone here.
If you want him gone just ignore him. Cut off the air supply to his ego. As long as you keep giving him material to respond to he'll keep coming back.From my experience in chat rooms, those with a large amount of regulars tend to argue a lot. And they tend to stay if the atmosphere is very peaceful at first. If it happens to go the other way some time later, then the new member ignores that and ends up a regular chatter.The thing is with forums is survival. I've seen many implode. They implode mainly due to cliquism. We have avoided that in any significant form. It's why I joined as I'd put a lot of effort into other places only to see it flushed down the tube. That's why I detest the likes of Dredge who is just abusing the this place for his own pleasure.
I've only been to one small chat room but it was apart of a different website for anxiety. For a long time it was like HAF where we could have talks and not think anything about it. We even had a few romances going on but once a stubborn guy with no control over himself broke up with someone everything went down hill into taking sides and fights for months. I was even subject to personal attacks because I had it better than some people.
All in all is I'm saying that HAF has potential if any of this can be related to forums. Yeah the smaller chat had fights, but they all had anxiety which brings out aggression. I don't see that in anyone here.
Well, I won't complain if you abuse Dredge all the way out of the forum!
Or talk about him but not to him!Nope. That still gives him material to respond to. People like Dredge live for an audience, just don't give him one.
Stooges lile dredge, they come and goSome truth in this.
A Moe, Larry or Curly
is needed on every show.
Or talk about him but not to him!Nope. That still gives him material to respond to. People like Dredge live for an audience, just don't give him one.
Honestly, I enjoy seeing how people point out Dredge's dumbfuckery to him, even if he doesn't listen. I even learn a thing or two along the way. But maybe I'm just masochistic.Demonstrating the abject stupidity of his ideas to lurkers is the silver lining of members like Dredge.
There was something I read last night called "mystic psychosis". I think it describes Dredge perfectly but I will let you decide.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystical_psychosis
There was something I read last night called "mystic psychosis". I think it describes Dredge perfectly but I will let you decide.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystical_psychosis
Um...I'm not the smartest one here, please remember that.... OK? :notsure:
OK?
...but I don't think we should be making a "diagnosis" without a license.
There was something I read last night called "mystic psychosis". I think it describes Dredge perfectly but I will let you decide.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystical_psychosis
Um...I'm not the smartest one here, please remember that.... OK? :notsure:
OK?
...but I don't think we should be making a "diagnosis" without a license.
Idiots make up roughly 98.99786545% of the human tribe.
I think this is a great forum, and easy to moderate too because it requires almost no intervention besides ridding the place of people who register in order to spam. Conflicts are rare between regulars and even so they hardly ever escalate to the point when someone has to start issuing out warnings.
A typical "argument" might look something like:
(https://media.giphy.com/media/l3q2EEI2fUXSAZF8k/giphy.gif)
:hammock:
I just remembered that the homepage of the forum is the mission statement. This is just a wild guess here but maybe the site doesn't get many new members because that page is a deterrent in some way. As either people don't see the link to the forum or maybe people don't have the patience to go through the extra page to make a profile.
Looks like a good plan, Recusant.I just remembered that the homepage of the forum is the mission statement. This is just a wild guess here but maybe the site doesn't get many new members because that page is a deterrent in some way. As either people don't see the link to the forum or maybe people don't have the patience to go through the extra page to make a profile.
Yes, that page needs updating, certainly. There is a security problem with it that will eventually be dealt with (it's not a problem for people that visit the page, rather a problem with a vulnerability that's being exploited to create spam pages using the domain name) and once that's done, one idea for it would be to have a "Latest Posts" area on it to show ongoing discussions.
Looks like a good plan, Recusant.I just remembered that the homepage of the forum is the mission statement. This is just a wild guess here but maybe the site doesn't get many new members because that page is a deterrent in some way. As either people don't see the link to the forum or maybe people don't have the patience to go through the extra page to make a profile.
Yes, that page needs updating, certainly. There is a security problem with it that will eventually be dealt with (it's not a problem for people that visit the page, rather a problem with a vulnerability that's being exploited to create spam pages using the domain name) and once that's done, one idea for it would be to have a "Latest Posts" area on it to show ongoing discussions.
Unless one is entirely new to forums of the theism/sthrism type the basic "mission" is predictable and rules sre similar. Personally I don't bother with looking at them first, I take the "tone" of the forum from the actual posts - whether or not I have to join to get access. Getting "read only" access without actually joining is a bonus.
When I had a personal website I advertised the forums that I was on with a feed from a selection of the threads, indicating the breadth of matters covered, as a tempter.
That' all well and good and thanks for the input, and please continue to keep up the good work here Recusant, butt I think what this forum needs is more members who walk into fountains while posting.
If we want more people to join the forum, we need to learn to do some of this shit right here.Possibly. But I have found a 120mm APFSDS round spreads pretty much anything everywhere ;D
We should give Tank one of those powerful weapons. :notsure:
He could spread atheism at a much faster rate.
I don't know many athiests but I was concerned with verbal assault when I came here for reasons. Reasons being I've heard of athiests being...opportunists in attacking one's weak spot(s). For obvious reasons I stayed. Mags especially gave me a warm welcome and I appreciate all of you. Our community is good the way it is. We don't need those other people who come to just troll do we? We have the best athiests right here already. Let's kick it up a notch, BAM! You are all enjoyable for certain reasons. You get along and have good discussion and bring something unique to the table. You're all independently cool and I enjoy your company. Look at how long the forum has lasted! You guys make the athiest happy at the happy athiest forum.Awwww...Arturo... :hug:
I don't know what that is.If we want more people to join the forum, we need to learn to do some of this shit right here.Possibly. But I have found a 120mm APFSDS round spreads pretty much anything everywhere ;D
We should give Tank one of those powerful weapons. :notsure:
He could spread atheism at a much faster rate.
...Speaking of powerful, where's THE Asmo? :(
...Speaking of powerful, where's THE Asmo? :(
The what?
...Speaking of powerful, where's THE Asmo? :(
The what?
...Speaking of powerful, where's THE Asmo? :(
The what?
El Asmojito, Father Bruno, El Asmojito.
Ooh, that reminds me, today is Friday, I should have one of those esta noche. :grin:
Edit: Fixed grammar.
...Speaking of powerful, where's THE Asmo? :(
The what?
El Asmojito, Father Bruno, El Asmojito.
Ooh, that reminds me, today is Friday, I should have one of those esta noche. :grin:
Edit: Fixed grammar.
Name doesn't ring a bell "Madre Superiora Magdalena"...however. If you will be enjoying mojitos later this evening, please, please, please come back to the forum tonight and post some stuff. 8)
Mags,
So when you say enough of the sister stuff, how serious are you really?
We talking physical violence or what?
OK. I think I am officially drunk. Well, as long as I can sp\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ I can spell correctly I can spell correctly, I am not drunkl. So. I am glad i did not post what I want ed to post earlier. I woul'd have ;made a food of myselft. so, i will send Father Bruno a PM. I will wait for her response. heree wer go..
Oh, boy.OK. I think I am officially drunk. Well, as long as I can sp\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ I can spell correctly I can spell correctly, I am not drunkl. So. I am glad i did not post what I want ed to post earlier. I woul'd have ;made a food of myselft. so, i will send Father Bruno a PM. I will wait for her response. heree wer go..
When did i become a her....and is your spell check drunk as well?
Lightweight...I never met anyone from El Salvador who could hold their liquor.
Thanks for the PM Mags, very interesting. I should share it with the forum, butt since I'm a gentleman ape I won't. 8)
Heh, is it worse to leave the contents of Mag's PM to Bruno up to people's imaginations? :PLeave the contents of Mag's PM to Bruno up to people's imaginations!
Heh, is it worse to leave the contents of Mag's PM to Bruno up to people's imaginations? :PLeave the contents of Mag's PM to Bruno up to people's imaginations!
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOfYGY.gif&hash=df14375826b273bb0499abfdfff7372ab327402b)
(https://media.tenor.co/images/8562f85c31d721491a06158a5634b55f/raw)Heh, is it worse to leave the contents of Mag's PM to Bruno up to people's imaginations? :PLeave the contents of Mag's PM to Bruno up to people's imaginations!
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOfYGY.gif&hash=df14375826b273bb0499abfdfff7372ab327402b)
Unfortunately the The Church of the Divine Atheist treats PM's under the Seal of Confession (or Seal of the Confessional), and it is the absolute duty of priests not to disclose anything that they learn from penitents during the course of the Sacrament of Confessing the shit they do or say. 8)
What this forum needs is more Salma Hayek.
What this forum needs is more Salma Hayek.
Now, now, just you watch out for your blood pressure, FB!
Or is it those monkey glands?
What this forum needs is more Salma Hayek.
What this forum needs is more Salma Hayek.
...and more Helen Mirren!
Do the girls have to do the whole thing as well?No, only the men.
Maybe they should do that....where there aren't straight males.:grin:
OK...maybe this place needs more country music. :notsure:NOOOOO!
Speaking of country music, with self driving cars becoming more and more prevalent, it's only a matter of time before the truck leaves too.
Self driving illegal immigrants.Arturo! :foottap:
:lol:OK...maybe this place needs more country music. :notsure:NOOOOO!
Self driving illegal immigrants.Arturo! :foottap:
We are undocumented immigrants not illegal immigrants. No human being is "illegal."
:lol:Self driving illegal immigrants.Arturo! :foottap:
We are undocumented immigrants not illegal immigrants. No human being is "illegal."
Oh no....they can speak :panic:
Self driving illegal immigrants.Arturo! :foottap:
We are undocumented immigrants not illegal immigrants. No human being is "illegal."
Self driving illegal immigrants.Arturo! :foottap:
We are undocumented immigrants not illegal immigrants. No human being is "illegal."
You aren't undocumented. I've seen your photo in the Post Office.
Self driving illegal immigrants.Arturo! :foottap:
We are undocumented immigrants not illegal immigrants. No human being is "illegal."
You aren't undocumented. I've seen your photo in the Post Office.
They are immigrants, who crossed the border illegally, because the didn't have documents with them to identify themselves.
Self driving illegal immigrants.Arturo! :foottap:
We are undocumented immigrants not illegal immigrants. No human being is "illegal."
You aren't undocumented. I've seen your photo in the Post Office.
They are immigrants, who crossed the border illegally, because the didn't have documents with them to identify themselves.
Personally, I go with undocumented workers because, whether their stay is permanent or temporary, a big chunk of CA economy depends on them (esp. as field workers because Mexican workers are literally the only people willing to do that thankless job). But in an effort to be fair, I acknowledge that those using "illegal immigrant" are saying that it's the immigration that's illegal, not the immigrant's humanity.
You aren't undocumented. I've seen your photo in the Post Office.Are you talking about that old FBI's Most Wanted Mugshot that they have of me with the fingerprints and everything? >:(
I think Magdalena should be the mascot for Happy Athiest Forum for obvious reasons.Urban Dictionary
I think Magdalena should be the mascot for Happy Athiest Forum for obvious reasons.Urban Dictionary
mascot: A mascot is a teammate who is utterly useless, and is just around as fodder or moral support.
Urban Dictionary
fodder: One who's sole existence is to absorb projectiles.
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-rofkX14qGUA%2FUB04M3NJ2wI%2FAAAAAAAACEk%2Fw-BDMoI7sFU%2Fs280%2Fkanye-west-laugh.gif&hash=6c6a049de9aa4a4f82d415e35d269c45adda13ab)
No, thank you. >:(
Nobody is going to be hurling things at you.Oh...I don't know, I'm sure some people would love to do that. :lol:
Why did you even look at urban dictionary for that lolIt's what "cool" people read. :fingertap:
Nobody is going to be hurling things at you.Oh...I don't know, I'm sure some people would love to do that. :lol:
Mags, goddammit! Stop posting so many GIF's!
(https://media.giphy.com/media/9zee4FbNoYUus/giphy.gif)Why did you even look at urban dictionary for that lolIt's what "cool" people read. :fingertap:
OK...maybe this place needs more country music. :notsure:NOOOOO!
(https://www.happyatheistforum.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.reactiongifs.com%2Fr%2F2013%2F11%2FTHANK-YOU-ONE-PERSON.gif&hash=1e0acb74b0007b2d4bc1b99ff2c7ddd0f1e51961)OK...maybe this place needs more country music. :notsure:NOOOOO!
I just heard it and I like it.
Would Hymn UB40 resonate through the hallowed halls as well?Would this amuse Dionysus?:eyebrow:--bless his plump Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
Would Hymn UB40 resonate through the hallowed halls as well?Would this amuse Dionysus?:eyebrow:--bless his plump Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
What this place needs is more "Gorilla Butt Smacking"!O.K...
I'm not going to edit Father Bruno's post to make it more accessible, but he certainly can. What you have to do is hit the quote button then copy the address of the video in the post, then strip off everything after FhaiP2tDdJo (quasi-pun intended). Then you have to log in to YouTube to confirm you're 'old enough' to view the video. Which gives you a clue. It's risque but that's all. :grin:
What this place needs is more fake nuns!
Fixed!
Tell me, P. Bruno...
What do you think this forum needs to survive?
Step one: Get rid of Mags.
Step two: ...
Step three:...
Help me, Bruno.
Step two: get Mags back
Step three: give her champagne and brownies
You are beautiful! :hug: :love:Step two: get Mags back
Step three: give her champagne and brownies
:postoday:
Tell me, P. Bruno...
What do you think this forum needs to survive?
Step one: Get rid of Mags.
Step two: ...
Step three:...
Help me, Bruno.
Miss Mags...what this forum needs is wonderful and caring members like you. You're the best and easily the most loved member here...so please no talk about leaving us okay?Oh...My...Asmo...
If you did leave who would I tease?
I mean I changed my name to Papasito for you cuz' I know how much you like it.
(https://i.imgur.com/L7elGrh.jpg)
Be good, your friend Bruno.(https://media.giphy.com/media/wYyTHMm50f4Dm/200w.webp)
Mags, if you did leave, we would just have to get a posse together to go and bring you back. You are much admired here.Awwwww...Bluenose, what a nice thing to say. :hug:
Tell me, P. Bruno...
What do you think this forum needs to survive?
Step one: Get rid of Mags.
Step two: ...
Step three:...
Help me, Bruno.
Step two: get Mags back
Step three: give her champagne and brownies
THIS!
Sorry, was that too loud? :tapemouth:
We love you Magdalena, this forum needs YOU. For real. You are kind, you are funny, you have the best gifs, you get feisty when necessary, you stand up for what you believe in, you are a good mama and a good person and we love you. You belong here, no matter who else comes along. This is your spot. :hug2:
I remember when you came here....Many years ago...you said something like. " Hey, I'm from Australia and I like wine!" :grin:
I thought, "Hello!, wine lover."
:cheersfortwo:
The forum is better with you here, Mags.:hanky:
The forum is better with you here, Mags.:hanky:
That's such a nice thing to say. Thank you, Davin. Debatable, but still a nice thing to say. :grin:
I think the world is better with you here, Davin. :hug:
(https://i.imgur.com/ZHT7Kvn.gif):eeew: dogs.
Ive had a few dogs over the years and a lot of cats. On the whole, I like cats better. 8)
The forum is better with you here, Mags.:hanky:
That's such a nice thing to say. Thank you, Davin. Debatable, but still a nice thing to say. :grin:
I think the world is better with you here, Davin. :hug:
I insist, the Happy Atheist Forum needs more drums.
:-\
But we ALL love having you here Mags! :love::hug:
Try some Japwnese
Try some Japwnese
Try some Japwnese
Don't mind if I do! That was an incredibly enjoyable performance. In my case, with the added visual delight of those male Asian torsos.
Try some Japwnese
Don't mind if I do! That was an incredibly enjoyable performance. In my case, with the added visual delight of those male Asian torsos.
Though that might pop your cork, Hermes!
But, just to show that the girls can do it . . .
Chacun son goût!
^^^
If I created a temple for Dionysus--bless his plump Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, I'm sure Tennessee Whiskey by Chris Stapleton would be one of our favorite "church songs." :dance1:
Offerings to Dionysus:...I got him a bottle of wine. :notworthy:
Wine/Mead (or any alcohol really)
Honeyed milk
Apples
Honey in general
Sweet meats or fruits
Olive oil
Dedicated sexual activities (if you are comfortable)
Grapes
Pine
Figs
Frankincense
Musk
Intoxicants of most varieties (though in saying this I do not condone illegal activity)
Ivy
Snake/Leopard/Bull shaped items
Wheat/Barley (things used to make alcoholic beverages)
Roses
I don't know if other related forums/websites would cooperate to promote, but you could ask them to mention this forum. I also think the strength of this forum lies in few numbers, more personal approach. I've always liked this.(https://media.giphy.com/media/hYAvfvuj8xKxO/giphy.gif)
This is a forum with good people so I recommend trying to get a few members.
Have a nice day all!
Signed,
-God
I think what this forum needs is more sexy, bearded, "Mermen"!(https://media.giphy.com/media/1Z02vuppxP1Pa/giphy.gif)
(https://i.imgur.com/wG5BqvT.png)
What about not that sexy bearded men? Asking for a friend...If your friend can grow a goatee...That's also acceptable.
^^^
If I created a temple for Dionysus--bless his plump Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, I'm sure Tennessee Whiskey by Chris Stapleton would be one of our favorite "church songs."
Found this on the internet:QuoteOfferings to Dionysus:
Wine/Mead (or any alcohol really)
Honeyed milk
Apples
Honey in general
Sweet meats or fruits
Olive oil
Dedicated sexual activities (if you are comfortable)
Grapes
Pine
Figs
Frankincense
Musk
Intoxicants of most varieties (though in saying this I do not condone illegal activity)
Ivy
Snake/Leopard/Bull shaped items
Wheat/Barley (things used to make alcoholic beverages)
Roses
...I got him a bottle of wine. :notworthy:
(https://thefunnyplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/In-vino-veritas.jpg)
DIONYSUS BRINGER OF LOVE:notworthy:
‘I bring love to give you solace
In the darkness of the night
In the Heart’s eternal light
You need only trust your feelings
Only Love can steer you right’
‘I bring laughter, I bring Music,
I bring joy and I bring Tears
I will soothe your primal fears
Throw off those chains of Reason
And your prison disappears’
The cities were abandoned
And the forests echoed song
They danced and lived as brothers
They knew Love could not be wrong
Food and wine they had aplenty
And they slept beneath the stars
The people were contented
And the Gods watched from afar
But the winter fell upon them
And it caught them unprepared
Bringing wolves and cold starvation
And the hearts of men despaired…
--I guess APOLLO BRINGER OF WISDOM can come too. ::)
--I guess APOLLO BRINGER OF WISDOM can come too. ::)
Wisdom and Love usually don't go hand in hand. ;D Should be interesting! :sidesmile:
The emotional and the intellectual angles of the human condition will never share clarity of vision.Never.
--I guess APOLLO BRINGER OF WISDOM can come too. ::)
Wisdom and Love usually don't go hand in hand. ;D Should be interesting! :sidesmile:
Did you see my expression?
------------------------> ::)
I didn't want him in my temple that much anyway. :grin:
--I guess APOLLO BRINGER OF WISDOM can come too. ::)
Wisdom and Love usually don't go hand in hand. ;D Should be interesting! :sidesmile:
Did you see my expression?
------------------------> ::)
I didn't want him in my temple that much anyway. :grin:
Yes I saw :lol:
>:( I do not approve of poor brain being treated like that!That's great. :lol: Love it.
;D
My mother showed me this cute short Disney animation a couple of days ago, called Inner Workings. It sort of has to do with the brain vs. heart "struggle".