Another issue that I think is a genuine concern is posts that do not necessarily violate T&C but that tend to be unpleasant and coarse. Especially when this bullying attitude ends up directed at a single member for a period of time. I imagine that some people do leave ATS simply because the backhanded and snide comments can wear one thin.

There is a specific member who can post a single sentence and get flamed for 20 pages over it. I won't name him, but I truly do think that about half of those who read these words will automatically know of whom I speak. How that guy rises above it, day after day, is inspirational to me.

There are a few members here that I am known for butting heads with. And in the threads it can often read like we are ripping each other apart at times. But the truth is that, between posts, most of the time, we are U2Uing back and forth and chatting as friends. We fight it out in threads, and leave it there. But are polite and kind to each other as well.

Several of my most respected and best ATS friends were people I started out debating against.

So, when you post, don't just think about whether or not your post might lead you into leaving ATS ( voluntarily or otherwise ) but also if your words might cause someone else to go. You might be chasing away a future friend and ally.

~Heff