Because I’ve been a little under the weather today (suffering from a “summer cold”), I did not check the blog as often as I normally do. When I did check it this afternoon, I found, amidst the usual banter and sharp-tongued exchanges in the comments section, a number (of comments) containing sexual references. Because I welcome open debate, a free exchange of ideas, I am reluctant to delete comments, but realized that, for the sake of the blog, I needed to do so today.
Nearly all of those who comment, including some of my most severe critics, do not make such references and do not make ad hominem attacks. Thank you for keeping the debate civil. But, I ask those of you who have made sexual references in the past to please desist from doing so in the future. And to refrain from attacking others who comment. Not only do I have the power to delete comments, I also have the power to ban people from commenting. This blog has only banned one person because he repeatedly attacked others who comment. I hope I do not have to do so again.
A number of teenagers read this blog, some straight, others struggling with their sexual identity. Consider when you post, how your words will appear to that individual still shaping in his mind an image of gays. And consider as well the numerous straight conservatives who check this blog from time to time. Some of your comments might reinforce stereotypes they may have about gay people.
-Dan (AKA GayPatriotWest): GayPatriotWest@aol.com