Think before you type!

[chickbea]

Hee, hee! It took me a while to find that search button as well. Maybe it needs to be made bigger...in a bright color...flashing!

 

[homechick]

Like you said, it's easy to offend and be offended when conversations are made in the virtual world without the social cues you get from voice or facial expressions. Also, being a newbie means that you don't realize how many people sign in everyday and read all the new posts. I was one of these people. I had NO idea that this many people came to backyardchickens everyday!
When I first logged on, I was looking for answers. I was in a bit of a panic because I thought I'd have to give up my babies after I only had them for a week. My family made me feel as if I was a bad mother for exposing my children to salmonella. Being a newbie, I posted the same topic in three different locations because I was sure that I woudl be lucky to get a few replies. I was called a troll and obviously took this offensively.. especially as emotional as I was. Now I realize that one post, in the right locations is enough. This site is REALLY awesome! I still haven't figured it all out and forget that there is a place for feeding, or a search tool, etc.
But with patience.. the same kind you need to care for an animal that runs from you when you really need to catch it... we can all get along and try to not judge.

 

[mudhen]

Oh, homechick, I'm so sorry that happened to you.

All part of the learning curve, I guess!

I had a recent experience where I reminded everyone to be patient and nice. I was called rude and refered to as a troll (or a banshee, I don't know which

) The point being, I had only meant to try and 'calm the waters' and succeeded in only making people upset with me. It still hurts, but I learned a valuable lesson.

Even though one's intentions and words aren't meant to ruffle feathers, the fact that so many people here have different backgrounds/personalities, it is always possible that someone will misinterpret what someone wrote.
It doesn't change the sting one feels for having been called a name, but it is an explanation for what happens.

Some people throw out comments that are harsh without thinking. Others have a sense of humor that can be misread.
And some are more sensititve than others.
Bottom line is, one has to develop a thicker skin and realize, as homechick said: "it's easy to offend and be offended when conversations are made in the virtual world without the social cues you get from voice or facial expressions"

This community is by far the best gathering of people I have ever encountered. Everyone is helpful and friendly, and I can't imagine my morning cup of coffee with out BYC!!

And as far as that search button goes, its the neatest feature! Incredible how easy it makes it to find info fast!!

I love it!

 

[MoonGoddess]

mudhen:
I can't imagine my morning cup of coffee with out BYC!! caf


Ooooooo....cooooooffeeeee.
I'm even coveting that cup of coffee the silly little icon is drinking.

My ulcer makes one cup of coffee for me pure agony.

I miss it so...

 

[chrissieg]

Can I add read before/after you type as well? Some of the troubled threads seem to have started by people jumping to conclusions.
Having said that don't stop please. This is a wonderful site. A lot of helpful advice just when you need it!!!!

 

[chickbea]

Hey! I just came across another one and it makes me sad! The thread is closed, which is good. Now I'm going to be naughty and mention it here (sorry moderators!).
We're here to talk chickens, not to critique grammar, usage, or spelling of other members. This opinion is coming from an English major and ex-English teacher - if I can overlook it all, so can anyone!
Everyone makes mistakes. Look - I forgot the "l" in "folks" in my original post!