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talaniman
Jul 12, 2006, 06:57 AM
Recently we have seen many younger posters take exception to the blunt language or criticism of some of the answers to there post. My question is should we as experts be able to tell it like it is or down tone our opinions to accommodate their sensibilities?

My opinion is that whatever answers we give should reflect not only our opinion but how we feel about the behavior that led to the question in as straightforward and honest way. Sugar coating bad behavior will only lead to minimizing their action and do no good.
Many of the post are from youngsters who some times have no clue how their actions affect others and I feel need the TOUGH LOVE that must be provided to open eyes and make them think about more than themselves. They need to know that not everyone agrees with their actions!

How do you guys feel?

Krs
Jul 12, 2006, 07:26 AM
Tal, I totally 100% agree with you!
I know exactly what it means, as I've had that sort of attitude with a certain younger poster on here.

I think in some instances we should maybe accommodate their sensibilties depending on the topic they are asking about, however on the other hand I believe we should tell it like its is.

So I'm with you Tal ;)

Starman
Jul 12, 2006, 10:42 AM
If everything is done within the guidelines of this website then we can be sure everything is OK. After all, we are just guests here and have to stay within the parameters set by the web owners. I read the guidelines and they are very clear so there shouldn't be any misunderstandings for anyone who understands basic English.

So yes, they should be corrected if wrong but it has to be done in a manner that doesn't break the rules governing this site. It's not easy sometimes since emotions become involved. But I think it's to the benefit of everyone involved that we try since that's what makes this site special in contrast to all the other junk sites where threads are chock full of personal insults, irrelevancies, continuous heckling and jeckling, and moderation is a mockery since it is virtually no-existent.

BTW
The real problem is that some younger posters are impervious to respectful requests to stop deviating threads or to stop heckling, jeckling, and being otherwise pestiferous. Maybe they can't help themselves--so it isn't always maliciously done. Or else they might think this site is like the hundreds of others where pandemonium is ignored or encouraged. When that happens the ignore option might be the only way to shut out the noise for those older ones who are sensitive to that sort of thing.

valinors_sorrow
Jul 12, 2006, 12:53 PM
I like the old Al-Anon axiom -- say what you mean and mean what you say but don't say it mean. To be effective, it is important to not alienate someone too much, of course. I enjoy how we all tend to play variations of "tag team" and it will often turn out that if they can't hear something from one person, they may from the next? LOL Ever notice that?

Sometimes people in trouble want the help to like, um, you know, fix it FOR them without there being any actual work on their part? My answers might make those folks uncomfortable. Oh well. Shrugs. :p

There are those too who take offense to truth (which is often the case with dysfunctional people) and well, their outbursts tend to only make it more clear how accurately that particular truth made a bullseye. I learned as a part of my job how not to be engaged by those kinds of outbursts -- but face to face is much easier to manage too, by the way.

If by chance I am annoyed here by a poster, I must either excuse myself or if its bad enough, report the post as inappropriate. I would not want to return the fire -- now that WOULD be bad. :eek:

I think we all risk taking some measure of crapola here when we tell it like we see it. If the asker is disrespectful, we all seem to tut tut that sort of thing well enough. Don't come a-asking iffen you feel a need to be editting da answers, I say! :D

talaniman
Jul 12, 2006, 01:39 PM
Thanks Krs, I do try to be nice... most times

talaniman
Jul 12, 2006, 01:47 PM
Thanks for being the voice of reason, hope I can remember that next time I hear crap!

phillysteakandcheese
Jul 12, 2006, 02:58 PM
Far too many people in this world (both young and old) want to absolve themselves of responsibility through a "magic bullet" solution.

It doesn't matter how deep a hole they've dug themselves into (financial, emotional... ) they want a quick fix that takes it all away. They abhor the idea that they are responsible and have to work hard towards improving themselves and their situation.

In these kinds of questions, my goal is to get the OP to make the connection:

What they have done is a reflection of who they are, and there is no "magic bullet" for changing who you are when you haven't accepted responibility for your predicament!

From a single post, it can be hard to gauge, but when the OP returns with a defensive reaction, it's like Val says:

... their outbursts tend to only make it more clear how accurately that particular truth made a bullseye.

rudi_in
Jul 12, 2006, 04:40 PM
While I put myself up for criticism by saying this... I will anyway as I do believe it.

There seems to be a deterioration of our society in terms of the beliefs and attitudes that we convey to others, social norms, and acceptable discipline of children.

I am sick of all the "sugar coating" and "toning down". America needs to quit being a puss and take the truth and learn from it.

We (as a societal whole) have become way too politically correct. We are so worried about hurting someone's feelings or coming across as disrespectful that our ability to function as a society in a competent fashion has been compromised.

This affects all areas of our lives and it continues to get worse.

We have to walk on glass to make sure we don't get in trouble. People are all to eager to sue, pull a race card, or claim some other frivolous junk. What has made us change to this?

Don't get me wrong, I am not advocating blatant disrespect or intentional rude behavior but some things have seriously gone too far.

Many of you know these things to be true... (although not practiced in all places)


In our public schools, my children cannot participate in the Christmas play or go on Christmas vacation. It is the winter play and winter break.

The kids are not allowed to have halloween parties.

They do not participate in Feb. 14th activities because of St. Valentine. OOOh, heard this one yet? A kindergarten boy was charged with sexual harassment for giving a kiss to a girl on Valentine's Day during the exchange of cards. Go figure. Such innocence - destroyed.

No such thing as Easter break. Spring break.

When I was in Iraq, we were not allowed to display the American flag INSIDE THE TENTS. Wouldn't want to offend a local Iraqi, who for God only knows what reason, might be in my tent.

People are even trying to eliminate the word God from the pledge! Good grief! We are so wrapped up in trying to please the minority of the people that we are screwing up the majority.
We live in the "Land of the Free". People are free to choose their religious beliefs. That being said, we are a country that was founded in the Christian faith. If you are of a different faith and chose to come to the "Land of the Free" - great! I will be your friend but don't be offended because I believe that Jesus died on the cross for me. Just sit quietly and be respectful as I would be respectful of your beliefs in your country. I will gladly eat dinner at your house but as you perform some tradition prior to eating, I might not participate but I will not be rude or disrespectful in the meantime.

I could say more but I will end this with a joke that I find humor value in but is in some ways all too true.

Santa Claus is on trial for sexual harassment. He is asked up to the witness stand. The prosecutor approaches Santa and asks...
"Did you or did you not look at my client from across the mall and not once but three times call her a ho?"

What are we doing to ourselves here?

I know I am not eloquent with my words here as this not exactly written to publish or backed by extensive research or anything it is just some feelings I have that this post sparked.

Am I alone on this? Am I wrong to think that the majority of our country is of some christian background?

Sorry to wander off topic a bit.

shunned
Jul 12, 2006, 04:48 PM
Recently we have seen many younger posters take exception to the blunt language or criticism of some of the answers to there post.

How do you guys feel?

When you say young posters, are you referring to age or post count?

talaniman
Jul 12, 2006, 05:31 PM
When you say young posters, are you referring to age or post count?
Both, It really is hard to tell someone's age unless they tell you:confused:

J_9
Jul 12, 2006, 05:33 PM
I must stand up and applaud!! This is absoultley perfectly true!

J_9
Jul 12, 2006, 05:36 PM
Yes, but most of the time it is easy to tell the person's age just by how they react to our answers.

magprob
Jul 12, 2006, 05:42 PM
I am sorry, tact is not a virtue we all have. When it comes to telling the truth, short of blatent, cheap shots, just tell it like it is. I am politically incorrect and I am quite happy being such. All of this politically correct nonsense is bull crap! The people that wish to destroy the moral standing of this country use it as a shield. Besides, what is wrong with pissing people off? As for the sensitive people that are being harmed by the hard cold truth or just by someone else's freedom of speech or demeanor, as George Carlin said, if you don't like what is on the radio, turn it off. It really is that simple.

As far as some of these "young" posters, with some of the retarded crap I've heard from them I would rather just give them a spankin! There is nothing you can tell them that will help. The school of life will teach them or kill them.

Now that I have upset some one, and I am sure I have, let me just say... tough! :mad:

talaniman
Jul 12, 2006, 05:45 PM
LOL

J_9
Jul 12, 2006, 05:52 PM
You did not upset me! I agree 100%!

LisaB4657
Jul 12, 2006, 07:06 PM
Magprob, I have to disagree with some of what you've said. Tact is not a virtue. Tact is politeness. Acting tactfully is a sign of respect towards another human being and I think that other human beings are entitled to respect until they show themselves to be unworthy of that respect.

What is wrong with pissing people off? It is disrespectful. If they don't deserve respect then go for it. But if they haven't done anything to make them unworthy of respect, then pissing them off is just malicious.

jduke44
Jul 12, 2006, 07:11 PM
I agree. Good explanation

Starman
Jul 12, 2006, 07:20 PM
Excellent! I agree 100%

jduke44
Jul 12, 2006, 07:22 PM
I think, as some have already said, there is a time to be blunt and sharp and a time to be sensitive to the younger posters question (or anyone's for that matter). The problem is sometimes there is not enough info given and the question may have been asked in a way that deserves to be blunt. There are times when I have seen one of you guys be harsh with a younger poster then come to find out they had another thread they gave this whole other perspective. Without seeing people face to face it is hard to know the posters (question or answer) intentions. For the sake of not rambling on, I will leave it at that.

Starman
Jul 12, 2006, 07:26 PM
Magprob, I have to disagree with some of what you've said. Tact is not a virtue. Tact is politeness. Acting tactfully is a sign of respect towards another human being and I think that other human beings are entitled to respect until they show themselves to be unworthy of that respect.

What is wrong with pissing people off? It is disrespectful. If they don't deserve respect then go for it. But if they haven't done anything to make them unworthy of respect, then pissing them off is just malicious.

Hitler pissed off the Jews because he thought they were worthy of his disrespect.

talaniman
Jul 12, 2006, 07:27 PM
You are so right, more info is needed sometimes

talaniman
Jul 12, 2006, 07:35 PM
I've read some good thoughtful opinions thus far and I would like to add that I try to reserve tough love for the ones who seem to have some sort of attitude or come off disrespectful from the start. I also realize I'm far from perfect but I try to be fair. Sometimes I fall short, but if you bring a bad attitude that's what you'll get.

phillysteakandcheese
Jul 12, 2006, 08:31 PM
You are definitely not alone on this!

phillysteakandcheese
Jul 12, 2006, 08:32 PM
Ditto... :)

Cassie
Jul 12, 2006, 10:11 PM
When someone posts a question, they are doing it to get answers, different views and advice. Correct? I say give the best advice and comments you feel they need to hear. Not everyone is going to have the same view, that is why different opinions are important. If they do not agree with the answers, well, that is their problem, they asked. If they lay out their problem in hopes
Of getting all to agree with them, that defeats the purpose of the post. When they ask for an opinion, they need to be ready to hear the good and the bad or else they'll never grow or change a thing in their lives.
I read a couple of post that were pretty juvenile and it was getting pretty petty. I will give my advice which may or may not be the best, it is only my opinion. If they get angry, that is for them to deal with.
It is true, sometimes it is hard to understand what they are saying, like parts of the story are left out.
I have read some really good advice from some of the "oldsters" and the "youngsters" could learn a lot from you, but some of them live with their ears (or eyes in this case) closed. You all have so much compassion for the young ones that listen and I can tell you really care and I just know it helps them so much. There are a lot of youngs kids out there today that are good and just need someone to help guide them and show them that they care. I think you are all great.

Cassie
Jul 12, 2006, 10:13 PM
Good comment

Starman
Jul 12, 2006, 10:15 PM
Good advice.

Cassie
Jul 12, 2006, 10:16 PM
You have this one right on

Cassie
Jul 12, 2006, 10:17 PM
A certainly agree

Krs
Jul 13, 2006, 12:30 AM
Right on!!

valinors_sorrow
Jul 13, 2006, 04:33 AM
If I may double dip here.. . I know there are circumstances where one is tempted to address two parts of the problems posted here --- the problem and the crappy value system that is made evident by the poster. However, trying to jam my value system on them will simply not work. It wouldn't with me either. We all inherit our value system from our families. Mine was so dysfunctional I had to totally rework mine and it is born out of what works (mindful that it must work for everyone too). I can imagine the ones who post here with the crappy value system may be somewhat similar to me in that regard. Soooooo, I try to work their crappy value system into the original problem in my answer, and hopefully diplomatically. I make the effort of diplomacy not so much because they deserve it as much as I do. That and it probably won't work otherwise. This does not stop me from telling the truth.

As far as disrespect, I learned it is a powerful thing not to hand it back when I encounter it... what I do reflects on me, not them and what they do reflects on them, not me.

NeedKarma
Jul 13, 2006, 04:40 AM
I have seen answers here where people post what they think the asker wants to hear; then the asker say thank you and goes away with the same problem they had when they came in here. I agree with the previous posters who believe in telling the asker what they truly believe to be the issue (usually that they are the problem) at hand in a respectful way. If the asker is overly sensitive in their response then you know that a) you have indeed hit a nerve and b) they came in here wanting to hear that nothing at all is wrong with them.

valinors_sorrow
Jul 13, 2006, 05:03 AM
Nods, love the new look too Karma, that one is really you!

Krs
Jul 13, 2006, 05:05 AM
I agree too, and also love your new hair and looks hehehe

Cassie
Jul 13, 2006, 06:20 AM
If I may double dip here . . . I know there are circumstances where one is tempted to address two parts of the problems posted here --- the problem and the crappy value system that is made evident by the poster. However, trying to jam my value system on them will simply not work. It wouldn't with me either. We all inherit our value system from our families. Mine was so dysfunctional I had to totally rework mine and it is born out of what works (mindful that it must work for everyone too). I can imagine the ones who post here with the crappy value system may be somewhat similar to me in that regard. Soooooo, I try to work their crappy value system into the original problem in my answer, and hopefully diplomatically. I make the effort of diplomacy not so much because they deserve it as much as I do. That and it probably won't work otherwise. This does not stop me from telling the truth.

As far as disrespect, I learned it is a powerful thing not to hand it back when I encounter it.... what I do reflects on me, not them and what they do reflects on them, not me.

Have to spread it around... Val, you are always diplomatic, such an asset to the post.

kp2171
Jul 13, 2006, 07:12 AM
I'm part irish.

I'm sort of blonde.

I'm a guy.

One means I'm blunt.

One means I get to kill bugs and lift heavy things.

One explains why my wife says "youre pretty" when I do something dumb.

Put them together and its like a deoxyribose nucleic acid formula for... well... as a fortune cookie once told me "you are obstinant and always wrong"... that was the rudest fortune cookie ever.

I think things should not get venenous here... but I don't mind at all if someone says my posts are complete bunk. Might be true. I think we should be able to strongly disagree from time to time, as long as the discussion is reasonable to the topic, and be able to walk away at the end of the day. My nature is to probably kick in a few doors when I disagree and see who's still standing and talking to me when its over. Oh well.

Mkay. I gotto go move the second half of 26 tons of concrete dust now. I'm not kidding. Stupid patio project.

lilfyre
Jul 13, 2006, 07:17 AM
I absolutely with out a doubt agree with you 110%, I could not have said it better if I was a Harvard graduate, which unfortunately I am not (O:

magprob
Jul 13, 2006, 08:20 AM
Are you equating me to Hitler or just heckling and jeckling off subjuct again?

magprob
Jul 13, 2006, 08:21 AM
Ecactly, I have seen so many "experts" give a sugar coated light answer that really did not get to the heart of the problem. What is the use?

Starman
Jul 13, 2006, 09:19 AM
We are not here to mete out punishment.

Starman
Jul 13, 2006, 09:21 AM
Excellent advice!

Depressed in MO
Jul 13, 2006, 11:03 AM
These are all very wonderful posts and you are all very caring, loving people, but I have to ask this in a "tough love' manner-who made you all "experts"? Did the web site owners classify you as this, do you have degrees? I've heard a few of you refer to yourselves as "experts" on this thread; however, when reading many, many other threads you have all posted to, the majority of you, if not-then all of you have started your answers out with "I'm not an expert but... "
One last thing...who all do you consider "youngsters"? Teenagers? Is there an age limit? I find some comments on here to be a bit discriminating. But please do not be offended. You have all given wonderful advice and I am sure will continue to do so. It's just that this thread is insinuating that you all know all the answers because you are "senior members"... I could be wrong, but that is the impression that I've gotten.

J_9
Jul 13, 2006, 11:21 AM
First off, as far as the experts goes, I had to submit a resume of sorts, if you will, so that Admin could determine if I had enough background to be considered an expert.

Secondly, as far as youngsters, in my opinion,it could be any age, it is all a matter of experience. I believe for the most part it is all in how the question is asked in the first place then in how they decide to take the advice and their reactions to that advice that gives me an idea of the "mental age", if you will, of the person in question.

talaniman
Jul 13, 2006, 11:58 AM
These are all very wonderful posts and you are all very caring, loving people, but I have to ask this in a "tough love' manner-who made you all "experts"? Did the web site owners classify you as this, do you have degrees? I've heard a few of you refer to yourselves as "experts" on this thread; however, when reading many, many other threads you have all posted to, the majority of you, if not-then all of you have started your answers out with "I'm not an expert but..."
One last thing...who all do you consider "youngsters"? Teenagers? Is there an age limit? I find some comments on here to be a bit discriminating. But please do not be offended. You have all given wonderful advice and I am sure will continue to do so. It's just that this thread is insinuating that you all know all the answers because you are "senior members"... I could be wrong, but that is the impression that I've gotten.
Hi, Depressed-I think your questions are very fair and I hope I can give you answers just as good. First off I'm no expert, and have never said I was, but my bio will tell you that I hold a masters degree from the college of hard knocks, that is a humorous reference to a well lived youth and life beating me in my young head before I opened my eyes with the help of many people and started to be a lot smarter in the things I do and how I do those things. It also says I retired after a 30 year career as an engineer in a steel mill in Indiana and moved to Texas where my wife of 32 years and I are living a very carefree relaxing life. I raised two kids of my own and 5 nieces who don't know there fathers and 4 nephews all around the same age 24-30 so I'm not a spring chicken and am proud to say they all work and raise families of their own. I've about heard or done it all in those years and honestly try to help those I can. At 52 my knowledge of people places and things is rather extensive and I try to pass it on as I also volunteer tutoring young people so they can get their GED to improve their lives. Everyone under my age is a youngster, or a kid depending how they act to me, and sometimes as this thread will a test I can be very blunt if I think the person asking the question needs my tough love, but I can also be very understanding and try to be as fair as possible with everyone. Trust me it ain't easy getting the proper balance but I try to HELP! Read my bio and the posts I've made and judge for yourself as I have been here less than a year. WHEW- I sure hope you understand all this ,if not ask more questions as I'm always glad to give my answer and hope it helps.

Starman
Jul 13, 2006, 12:12 PM
Mental age! I like that expression!

valinors_sorrow
Jul 13, 2006, 12:18 PM
Merci beaucoup or as we say in da south, "mercy buckets" Cassie

magprob
Jul 13, 2006, 01:22 PM
There it is there!

Depressed in MO
Jul 13, 2006, 02:09 PM
Hi, Depressed-I think your questions are very fair and I hope I can give you answers just as good. First off I'm no expert, and have never said I was, but my bio will tell you that I hold a masters degree from the college of hard knocks, that is a humorous reference to a well lived youth and life beating me in my young head before I opened my eyes with the help of many people and started to be a lot smarter in the things I do and how i do those things. It also says I retired after a 30 year career as an engineer in a steel mill in Indiana and moved to Texas where my wife of 32 years and I are living a very carefree relaxing life. I raised two kids of my own and 5 nieces who don't know there fathers and 4 nephews all around the same age 24-30 so I'm not a spring chicken and am proud to say they all work and raise families of their own. I've about heard or done it all in those years and honestly try to help those I can. At 52 my knowledge of people places and things is rather extensive and I try to pass it on as I also volunteer tutoring young people so they can get their GED to improve their lives. Everyone under my age is a youngster, or a kid depending how they act to me, and sometimes as this thread will a test I can be very blunt if I think the person asking the question needs my tough love, but I can also be very understanding and try to be as fair as possible with everyone. Trust me it ain't easy getting the proper balance but I try to HELP! Read my bio and the posts I've made and judge for yourself as I have been here less than a year. WHEW- I sure hope you understand all this ,if not ask more questions as I'm always glad to give my answer and hope it helps.
Thanks for your reply, I truly appreciate it. Now that is a respectful answer. No doubt in my mind that you all have experienced a lot in life and are truly knowledeable on many matters of the heart (or whatever). I just appreciate the fact that even though you may have been offended by my statement and questions, you answered me with diginity and respect and in return, I know have more respect for you (whether it matters or not). If most people answered these topics like you, there probably wouldn't be so much animosity on this forum.


First off, as far as the experts goes, I had to submit a resume of sorts, if you will, so that Admin could determine if I had enough background to be considered an expert.

Secondly, as far as youngsters, in my opinion,it could be any age, it is all a matter of experience. I believe for the most part it is all in how the question is asked in the first place then in how they decide to take the advice and their reactions to that advice that gives me an idea of the "mental age", if you will, of the person in question.

First of all, the only way you could truly be an expert is if you had a degree in psychology-I don't maybe you do. In that case, I would be wrong about my questions.

Secondly, the idea of the "mental age" is just that-an idea-a theory based on opion, not fact and should not be taken seriously because of those very same particular reasons. It's not right to judge people. Sure you may be able to tell if someone is younger or oldder by their post (although again, only a theory-there are, unfortunately, immature people out there in today's society), but someone young or old to you, may not be to someone else. So therefore, it is not fair to judge someone's post by their age or your perception of their age because it is irrelevant to the facts. You should always ask the person's age if you are curious or trying to figure out the best way to help them. Never assume... just my opinion

J_9
Jul 13, 2006, 02:29 PM
You are absolutley correct about being an "expert" however, my expertise is in nursing which in all actuality encompasses psychology, spending a semester at the hospital for the menatlly ill in Haiti, MO.

And, again your are correct about the "mental age" I can project to be much younger than I really am. And, therefore, I NEVER judge people according to their posts. It is harder to "read" a person than it is to actually listen to one in person. If you are face-to-face, you can read body language, tone of voice, that sort of thing, but here you cannot.

You say that their age, or perception thereof, is irrelevant, I beg to differ, I may be wrong, but when answering you must take that into account. It all truly depends on how the question is asked. And with age, comes wisdom, and with wisdom comes knowledge. I do not think it is right to beat a person into the ground, but once you have been through the school of hard knocks, which has already been mentioned, you learn to read between the lines.

If you were 15 and I said I needed to use the sphygmomanometer to tell if your heart is not beating too fast, you would look at me like I am crazy. Would it not be more simple to say "I am going to put the blood pressure cuff on your arm and take your blood pressure?" So we have to try to respond accorgingly and sometimes that is not easy.

So, unfortunately, on this kind of forum we have to read between the lines. Sometimes we are wrong, and those of us who are mature enough will admit that we are wrong. There are a few who will not, and I am not talking about you. So far from what I have seen of you, you are one tough gal who deserves the best that life can give.

jduke44
Jul 13, 2006, 03:21 PM
Very true. Good points

talaniman
Jul 13, 2006, 03:22 PM
By D/MO

Thanks for your reply, I truly appreciate it. Now that is a respectful answer. No doubt in my mind that you all have experienced a lot in life and are truly knowledeable on many matters of the heart (or whatever). I just appreciate the fact that even though you may have been offended by my statement and questions, you answered me with diginity and respect and in return, I know have more respect for you (whether it matters or not). If most people answered these topics like you, there probably wouldn't be so much animosity on this forum
You have brought out a very important point, Having read your other posts on different occasions I have gotten to know you a lot more therefore my comments will reflect that familiarity. Others probably have experienced the same thing with other members on this forum as many have gotten to be very close. When a newbie or younger person comes on the, I would have to use my best judgement or instinct to gauge what I think is an appropriate response and to be honest sometimes I'm not right aat all so I just do my best. I have had to eat my words or apologize on occasion ,but that's life. We are all different in the way we approach things and in our reactions and that what makes this site unique, you can't expect everyone to agree or even get along ALL the time.
Also by D/MO
First of all, the only way you could truly be an expert is if you had a degree in psychology-I don't maybe you do. In that case, I would be wrong about my questions.


Secondly, the idea of the "mental age" is just that-an idea-a theory based on opion, not fact and should not be taken seriously because of those very same particular reasons. It's not right to judge people. Sure you may be able to tell if someone is younger or oldder by their post (although again, only a theory-there are, unfortunately, immature people out there in today's society), but someone young or old to you, may not be to someone else. So therefore, it is not fair to judge someone's post by their age or your perception of their age because it is irrelevant to the facts. You should always ask the person's age if you are curious or trying to figure out the best way to help them. Never assume... just my opinion

I do not totally agree here as an idea of someone's age greatly affect my whole approach to the way I deal with this person. If I get what I think is an attitude then it may show in the way I answer, that's just me right or wrong. If I sense respect That's the way I comeback, again just me.

talaniman
Jul 13, 2006, 03:25 PM
Not knowing a person you have to use your own judgement

magprob
Jul 13, 2006, 04:20 PM
Tact is a skill. It can be used like a double edged knife. It just depends on how much politness a person deserves. In some circles, politness is a weakness. I try not to leave myself open.

shunned
Jul 14, 2006, 04:24 AM
Recently we have seen many younger posters take exception to the blunt language or criticism of some of the answers to there post. My question is should we as experts be able to tell it like it is or down tone our opinions to accommodate their sensibilities?

How do you guys feel?

I think tact and diplomacy go a long way and says much of the expert. :P

Depressed in MO
Jul 14, 2006, 05:42 AM
You are absolutley correct about being an "expert" however, my expertise is in nursing which in all actuality encompasses psychology, spending a semester at the hospital for the menatlly ill in Haiti, MO.

And, again your are correct about the "mental age" I can project to be much younger than I really am. And, therefore, I NEVER judge people according to their posts. It is harder to "read" a person than it is to actually listen to one in person. If you are face-to-face, you can read body language, tone of voice, that sort of thing, but here you cannot.

You say that their age, or perception thereof, is irrelevant, I beg to differ, I may be wrong, but when answering you must take that into account. It all truly depends on how the question is asked. And with age, comes wisdom, and with wisdom comes knowledge. I do not think it is right to beat a person into the ground, but once you have been through the school of hard knocks, which has already been mentioned, you learn to read between the lines.

If you were 15 and I said I needed to use the sphygmomanometer to tell if your heart is not beating too fast, you would look at me like I am crazy. Would it not be more simple to say "I am going to put the blood pressure cuff on your arm and take your blood pressure?" So we have to try to respond accorgingly and sometimes that is not easy.

So, unfortunately, on this kind of forum we have to read between the lines. Sometimes we are wrong, and those of us who are mature enough will admit that we are wrong. There are a few who will not, and I am not talking about you. So far from what I have seen of you, you are one tough gal who deserves the best that life can give.
I understand what you are saying. I know I sound bitter a lot lately because I am-I have been through a lot. So thanks for your clarification.

talaniman
Jul 14, 2006, 06:21 AM
To D/MO-Feeling bitter? You know what to do ,lay it out here and let us stomp on it for you. You'll feel so much better!:cool: :) My fingers are just itching to... help, Or that mosquito got me... hmm!

Chery
Jul 14, 2006, 07:25 AM
Absolutely... I hope they get the message - and think years later where they got it from.

Chery
Jul 14, 2006, 07:30 AM
I am sorry, tact is not a virtue we all have. When it comes to telling the truth, short of blatent, cheap shots, just tell it like it is. I am politically incorrect and I am quite happy being such. All of this politically correct nonsense is bull crap! The people that wish to destroy the moral standing of this country use it as a sheild. Besides, what is wrong with pissing people off? As for the sensitive people that are being harmed by the hard cold truth or just by someone elses freedom of speech or demeanor, as George Carlin said, if you don't like what is on the radio, turn it off. It really is that simple.

As far as some of these "young" posters, with some of the retarded crap I've heard from them I would rather just give them a spankin! There is nothing you can tell them that will help. The school of life will teach them or kill them.

Now that I have upset some one, and I am sure I have, let me just say...tough! :mad:
http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_1_55.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZNxdm801YYDE)
I guess my comment didn't fit into the space... but you're so right. I've ignored many where I should have reached out and 'spanked', - thank goodness they are not my kids.


I also feel that some purposely post ridiculous issues just as a prank or to test us.
It takes all kinds.

Depressed in MO
Jul 14, 2006, 08:35 AM
to D/MO-Feeling bitter? You know what to do ,lay it out here and let us stomp on it for you. You'll feel soo much better!:cool: :) My fingers are just itching to ...........help, Or that mosquito got me.................hmm!
LOL-Oh you all would have a great time on this forum if I give you an update on what has currently been happening in my life since my last posts.

Chery
Jul 14, 2006, 08:54 AM
LOL-Oh you all would have a great time on this forum if I give you an update on what has currently been happening in my life since my last posts.

Oh Oh, Depressed... that sounds like a 'cop out'. You know us well enough by now, so why don't you give us a try -

You know we are just waiting for a new challenge, so go for it.

http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/7/7_5_143.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZNxdm801YYDE) Challenge is good! - We might just surprise you...

Cassie
Jul 14, 2006, 10:23 AM
LOL-Oh you all would have a great time on this forum if I give you an update on what has currently been happening in my life since my last posts.

It might not be so bad, you seem to keep the post hopping anyway.:) I think you may be a bit sensitive in the area of jumping to a conclusion when someone gives you advice, you tend to take it as criticism rather than advice or someone else's opinion. Try not to take it to heart so quickly and put it in perspective. It is their opinion based on their views of life which may or may not be how you view yours. I think as we get older we have experienced a lot and seen so much, we tend to want to help the younger generation skip the hard knocks of life. If the advice comes on a bit strong, it is only meant to help. Sometimes experience is the only way to learn (we have all done that once or twice). Keep those posts coming, you are a bit of a spitfire, I do see when you calm down some you have a good head on your shoulders.:) We all really care and only want to be of help.

Depressed in MO
Jul 14, 2006, 11:01 AM
It might not be so bad, you seem to keep the post hopping anyway.:) I think you may be a bit sensitive in the area of jumping to a conclusion when someone gives you advice, you tend to take it as criticism rather than advice or someone else's opinion. Try not to take it to heart so quickly and put it in perspective. It is their opinion based on their views of life which may or may not be how you view yours. I think as we get older we have experienced a lot and seen so much, we tend to want to help the younger generation skip the hard knocks of life. If the advice comes on a bit strong, it is only meant to help. Sometimes experience is the only way to learn (we have all done that once or twice). Keep those posts coming, you are a bit of a spitfire, I do see when you calm down some you have a good head on your shoulders.:) We all really care and only want to be of help.
I know-you are right about that, I shouldn't show my frustrations through my words. I guess I just need a big punching bag at my desk. Although I mean what I say, I don't really totally disagree with what anyone has said. I was just trying to put an argument up I guess. I'm really a nice person I swear... :)

As far as an update, oh yeah, you will all be kept busy for hours!(sigh) ok-I will send a posted update here shortly. I'm at work so I have to squeeze it in discreetly. It will be rather lengthy, so there is the warning.
BTW-incase any of you were wondering when I was arguing-I'm 25 yrs old. So yes, I'm a youngin'.

Cassie
Jul 14, 2006, 11:29 AM
Heavens, I know you are a nice person, it really does show through

phillysteakandcheese
Jul 22, 2006, 01:00 PM
You got to be blunt sometimes to get through that attitude.