**** The following message was soaked in anti-flame solution. ****
**** Flames back will be neutralized and without effect.  ****
 
It has been happening everywhere, I hear or watch it on the news almost
every day, and our politicians do it all the time, but I certainly do not
want it to happen around this list.
 
We are all subject to lose a little control when defending a cause. But we
must keep in mind that arguments should stay away from personal offenses.
Unfortunately sometimes, the issues discussed here include comments way out
of line.
 
I think it is time for all of us to make an effort and leave out offensive
adjectives and comments in order to keep the high level of communications
wanted through the group. Please, stop trying to shut anyone because of
their views. If these views become constantly offensive to many members on
the list, they will generate a huge volume of replies and only then an
action might be necessary (remember the "green card" services
advertisement?)
 
Every advocate believes its argument is right (or at least that is the way
it should be). But even when an argument is valid, the way to express it
will have an impact on the audience. The words, the tone, and the intention
as well as the contents will be determinant factors in the results. We may
gain support, or opposition. We have to consider the audience when our
argument accuses, blames, or attack others thoughts. True that the
confrontation is necessary, but between all of us on this list, the
enlightenment process should make us all winners, even when our  argument
loses the battle.
 
We are not in the military service here, and no one has been appointed drill
sergeant of the list. Instead of expressing thoughts as commands, we must
show  more respect for dissidents, and write all suggestions with
consideration.
 
Everyone's participation on the list is valuable. The personal touch and
different styles to present ideas on it are among the things I enjoy most.
 
No one should feel banned or sent to exile by isolated comments. Keep on
sharing your ideas with all of us. We will be "listening".
 
Sorry for taking away a few minutes from your reading.
 
Thanks,
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