We managed for the last 2 years to keep our space safe for all and even though some discussions have become a bit heated there have only been a couple of violations that we’ve actually had to intervene in. One was asked to leave, the other banned.

in most cases when people get heated and say things in a way they shouldn’t they usually calm down and apologise. that shows maturity.

Some topics seem to go around in circles and traditionally trigger peoples buttons. People have already made up their minds and the only arguement is only trying to change the others opinions and beliefs. So I’m wondering what your thoughts are about making some topics taboo. At the same time we need to be careful that we don’t destroy the dynamic that happens here which in the majority of cases is healthy.

if i were going to put a subject on the list, I would put the infallibility of the bible. Considering the broad range of our target market it would seem one group is trying to get the others to change their beliefs.

so what do you think? let things go as they are or what?

Maybe its more about being respectful of each others positions, communicating in a mature manner, being sensitive and not having an agenda to convert everyone to our position.

I’m certainly not wanting to stiffle discussion Sandy….i’m sure we’ve all learnt from some of our more hot topics. I know i have…….sometimes from having to thoughtfully articulate my current beliefs on some things.

Sandy said; “I am saying that if discussing the bible and promoting its infallibility is to become a taboo on this forum then there is really little point of my being here”

I’m not really sure that is true.

Can’t we state what we believe without the agenda to convert another to our way of thinking. its a difficult one isn’t it because sometimes our intention is not to make the other person wrong but that is the way they perceive it.

anyway……..I’ve tried to convert you several times…… 😆 😆 😆 …..it didn’t work :wink:…..or maybe you didn’t realise it. 😆 Please notice lots of 😆 ‘s

maybe its the moderator job to jump in…..and settle things down or shut down a discussion that has become unproductive. thats a lot of work though.

I know that on some forums they have a special section where people can get hot headed…..and they warn the more gentile members to stay away.

I think i may have opened a can of worms here 🙄

Personally, its great that we share what we believe, if there is a misunderstanding then yes by all means apologise but I havent come across one person on here yet who is genuinely peed off with anyone so far or is holding a grudge, if they are then the level of emotional maturity is starting to show with that person or a level of personal hurt that has nothing to do with the discussion or person involved.

Its not a question of forbidding anyone to believe in the infallability of the bible by stopping this topic, its a matter of if someone isnt believing it then let them be, there are other points of discussion we can make that dont bring about offence to either party. Should we not be promoting peace and it wouldnt be at any expence either, God can defend himself I have learnt and just because people dont whole heartedly agree or believe in something, is hardly going to remove him from his throne.

I think there is a level of maturity in knowing when to let things lie and to stay silent and when not to, Jesus did it, he never argued in circles to prove a point so maybe we shouldnt either and he didnt take offence if others didnt believe in him either or in who he was, he just moved on himself or changed the subject. Paul even talks about it, people needlessly arguing points back and forth about food was his example at the time, Im sure that can apply to anything. If you believe the bible is infallible great so be it but if not then thats you great so be it, God has never needed to prove himself. Come on everyone lets not start taking offence at each other and what we are curbing a little is all………please!!!! 🙁

Can we talk without chips on our shoulders and maybe start pulling

together and being understanding that we are all in different places. We are all trying to come to terms with certain things in our lives, some have and some are still, can we search our hearts a little and be like Jesus and show mercy and compassion.

(This is by no means aimed at ANYONE, Im just making an observed statement and hoping its taken in its heartfelt gentle tone that I would speak it in person)

Hi all

Robert, that was a great post and I agree this discussion has an admirable level of honesty.

Robert you said: “Part of the problem with coming up in a Pentecostal type background was that you could not comment or ask questions on issues you did not understand … EVERYTHING was taboo.” So typical of my own life, even though Pentecostalism came in later on.

I think the taboo thing is a great point along with the issue of our bruised backgrounds. I’m sensitive about the infallible Bible line because it appears to shut down other points of view. It appeared ok at first but has gained such a momentum that I’m also ready to look elsewhere to find affirming discussion. (That is affirming of GLBTIQQ people, not any specific behaviour).

I hope it’s not a lack of maturity that drives me but the power of personal choice. In saying that, I’m only 4 years old as an out gay man and I have a lot of learning to do. Discussion boards are also impersonal. You make a matter of fact statement and 10 people take you 10 different ways. It’s so easy to offend when you lack eye contact, a smile and the ability to be immediately questioned. Many antagonists and tyrants on blogs are actually mice in real life.

I just happen to be the exception. (I’d use a LOL emoticon here but they don’t work on my computer – just like quoting and editing don’t work, Anthony). Anyway, I’m thoughtfully outspoken in real life and cop the crap for it. I’ve been complemented (and abused) for my sense of humour and criticized for being too intense. I like to get to the bottom of things, especially as in my world it appears to be a life or death matter.

So chill! A new leaf perhaps? I could be more understanding of opponents and take the whole blog in a more light-hearted way. Perhaps I could stick around and see how it goes.

I don’t think we can ban topics but I think we can all be respectful of difference.

Thanks.

Kit