Jeff wrote:How do you know I freaked out? How do you know that I took you seriously? In fact, you have no idea where I am going with this, or why I am doing this.
That's rich; you inferred, quite falsely, that I was attacking your initial comment when all I was doing was joking with you. Perhaps you should remember your own words ^ next time.
Jeff wrote:You are correct, you should expect to be given respect. Treat others the way that you would want them to treat you.
However, I am also correct in that you can not demand respect. If someone does not respect you, or your way of life, you cannot demand that they do. You can not force them to respect you. You have to earn that respect, by giving them respect, even though they may not deserve it. Otherwise, you are no better than them. Becoming defensive, and even militant, is the worst thing to do.
You're conflating respect with friendliness. People don't have to like each other, but they
should respect each other. Even anonymously.
Jeff wrote:Explain to me how someone on an internet forum saying that they do not like same sex partners, and that they do not deserve the same rights affects you?
That is their opinion, and they have a right to it. Arguing, or becoming defensive with them will not change their mind, and it will not do anything to help you get the rights that you want. Unless that person happens to be a lawmaker, and will actually have a say in it.
Most people share the need to communicate. While nothing happens in the grand scheme of things by debating with someone online, it can help one to gather their thoughts, organize their ideas, or perhaps simply vent their frustrations. It's also a way to see things from the other side's perspective. Hence "General Discussion".
Jeff wrote:I could care less. I am not pro or con. Live your life the way you want to.
Good. Then why even bring it up? Afterall, it's "
on an internet forum" that you've brought up this discussion in the first place.
Jeff wrote:Direct your energies where it will do the most good. Go to Rally's, sign pettitions, become active, and make a difference. Nothing that happens on a Gaming Fan Site/Forum will affect you, or help you in your cause.
Again, then why are you on here? As you said above, how do you know those discussing on here haven't already participated in some way? It must be nice sitting on such a high horse.