Are you Uncomforable

[Infinite Muse]

Is there anything you feel uncomfortable saying here at MW because of the subject matter?

[DixieWitch]

if I feel uncomfortable saying something, I don't say it.

[Epona44]

But, then I'm ever mindful of the variety of members, and all the ages, so I tend to meter my responses. :halohead:

[Infinite Muse]

there's phrases like "oh my god" that i feel uncomfortable using here because of the connotations
i find myself typing them in and then going back and editing them out so i don't offend anyone or give anyone a wrong impression of my beliefs

[Flaire-FireStar]

There are some things I'm uncomfortable saying, mainly because I think it's too PG-like for some of the members. :bigredblu

[arctic splash]

No, not really. No more than I'd feel uncomfortable saying certain things anywhere else.

Infinite Muse -- if you do feel like using phrases like 'oh my god,' I doubt you'll offend many of us... and in using them you might just help others who feel uncomfortable loosen up a bit. ;)

[Secrets Flame]

Nope, not one bit. If someone offends me, I'll let them know... just as I'm sure someone will let me know if I've offended them... I don't let it worry me

[Xander67]

I speak my mind, within the Framework of the MW rules and regulations.

what DOES however bother me is that people form opinions of me based on a POST I made on a message board....

*shrugs*

this is the nature of the beast I suppose.... People who actually have taken the time to get to know me find im not that bad of a guy :D and but I know I cant please everyone, so I respect everyone's opinion of me reguardless of the level of info they have on me :)

[dr_zeus440]

hmm, xander, anyone who realises that posting on a site is the construction of a persona and not the revealing of an individual would think twice about forming opinions about any"one" they encounter on the net (of course, similarities between the persona and the individual are unavoidable, but theyre not one and the same).

uncomfortable? hmm, no not really. the controversial views often have to be more carefully constructed than the more acceptable and common views, but thats an exercise in creative writing, not tongue-holding.

[Xander67]

well, it is hard to project the true essence of ones persona here.

If you take a look at my posts, you would think im INsaine lol
although I do conceede I am a bit Eccentric, but I have good morals, (at least I like to think so)
sure I goof off, and I get on my soap box in political.... but hey, there is more to a person than there posts. :)

[~BEBZ~]

Yep! Anything that has to do with Christianity or biblical religions. It is very hard to walk the line between showing contempt and showing disrespect. What one finds offensive, many others do not. A lot of people on here are baby's. They whine about everything.*edited* Like this post. I'm sure I will be jumped on horribly, but that's how I feel. I don't think I'm showing any disrespect. But then again many people have varying definitions about Respect. Merriam-Webster simply defines it as consideration.

Also, I feel uncomfortable having any Christians around period. This is a Pagan chat board. Christian chat boards outnumber it by hundreds if not thousands. I look at this place as a refuge from those people, and yet they are here too. I do not think that is fair. I know a lot of people consider themselves Christian witches, but I do not consider any ol person who practices Witchcraft as Pagan. So it makes me question their intentions for being here.

Those are just my feelings. I do not need to be told that I have no place telling anyone who belongs here and who doesn't, I know that. I try not to. I am simply answering the question honestly.

[Chibi-Fallon]

Yeah I have to censor myself. I swear a lot. And I say Jesus Christ/Jesus H constantly. It's annoying because it breaks up the flow of my sentences when I can’t say it.

[Xander67]

Actually, This message board is NOT for Pagans only.

you have Jews, christians, druids, Bards, Qaballists, Catholics, Muslims , Jehovah's Witnesses...

Intollerance of any religion is against the MW Code.
People have been banned for this.

[Epona44]

Yep! Anything that has to do with Christianity or biblical religions. It is very hard to walk the line between showing contempt and showing disrespect. What one finds offensive, many others do not. A lot of people on here are baby's. They whine about everything.*edited* Like this post. I'm sure I will be jumped on horribly, but that's how I feel. I don't think I'm showing any disrespect. But then again many people have varying definitions about Respect. Merriam-Webster simply defines it as consideration.

Also, I feel uncomfortable having any Christians around period. This is a Pagan chat board. Christian chat boards outnumber it by hundreds if not thousands. I look at this place as a refuge from those people, and yet they are here too. I do not think that is fair. I know a lot of people consider themselves Christian witches, but I do not consider any ol person who practices Witchcraft as Pagan. So it makes me question their intentions for being here.

Those are just my feelings. I do not need to be told that I have no place telling anyone who belongs here and who doesn't, I know that. I try not to. I am simply answering the question honestly.


When you are confident and comfortable with who you are, you will not feel threatened or feel a need to fight against those who feel differently. Pick your battles wisely. Life is long and one should not have to waste any part of a day engaged in fruitless attempts to change others, or fret about their imperfections.

There are plenty here to talk with, and consideration, like manners, costs nothing.

:abbed: :awilly: :stooges:

[morrigen]

There are some things I'm uncomfortable saying, mainly because I think it's too PG-like for some of the members. :bigredblu


Yup, me too. This is the only place in my life other than my mother-in-laws place, where I don't swear :D

[Tsuchimaru]

I usually say what I want as long as it stays within the board rule... :)

[Flaire-FireStar]

Yup, me too. This is the only place in my life other than my mother-in-laws place, where I don't swear :D

:crazylaug

I swear regularily here.
There are..uhm....other things... that I don't say.

[FaerieGothMommy]

Yes, theres a few things... Sometimes i have to re-read a msg and then delete some... I worry what others think too much.

[Pandoras]

I generally try to think very carefully about my posts so as not to offend, etc. I do find myself sugarcoating a lot, especially lately. Heck, I'm doing it right now. There are certain areas of MW I avoid altogether.

[Xentor]

Also, I feel uncomfortable having any Christians around period. This is a Pagan chat board. Christian chat boards outnumber it by hundreds if not thousands. I look at this place as a refuge from those people, and yet they are here too. I do not think that is fair. I know a lot of people consider themselves Christian witches, but I do not consider any ol person who practices Witchcraft as Pagan. So it makes me question their intentions for being here.

You are entitled to your opinion of course, and as long as you don't try to chase any of our non-pagan members away, there's no harm in holding nor voicing that opinion.

However I do need to correct you. This is not a pagan board. This is a pagan community. That means, that just as in any other community, there are people around that are not pagan themselves, but, for instance, related to one (possibly a member), or want to find out more about paganism.

There are members who want to convert pagans to their own non-pagan path, but they are few and far-between, and usually don't stick around for long.

[FroggieThePunk]

Nope, not a bit. Though I do have to censor some of my thoughts. I can't just say whatever I want on here like I do irl. I have to keep it pg-13, or G rated, and irl I am most definetly an R or NC-17 kinda person.

[argento_occhi]

no, don't really hold back, though i will try and refrain from swearing too much

[WingedTigerChild]

No. I believe in tolerance, not political correctness.

~BEBZ~ I have to say that I agree with Epona44. Treat others the way you wish to be treated.

[Mindflayer]

Well I wouldn't say 'uncorfortable', more of the fact I just don't talk about it at all, for any reason :p


The only thing that makes me uncofortable are people who get too personal. I don't dwell on things, if I make a post and it's been more than an hour... I'm over it. I like debates as much as the next guy, but a lot of people tend to take things personally, I leave the debate in the thread... where it belongs.

I remember one time, me and Ben T. we're having 2 conversations. We were having a heated debate in Political Pagan, and just friendly chatting in the chat room at the same time. I like that :)

[Fane Ayuma]

if it was something personal, i wouldnt go shouting it, unless i wanted a variety of opinions
otherwise i would just p.m. someone.

[Cielamara]

I have to edit most of my thoughts before posting them. Not so much for language as for sheer wanting to say precisely what I'm thinking and not being able to for fear of the many easily offended people here raising hell about it. I don't mind a good debate...but I do mind people who're being purely stupid trying to pick a fight with me.

[misschief]

no, i think most people know i'll say anything. the only thing i don't like talking about at length is the government. not that it isn't interesting... but you can only say so much before it looks funny.

[Smiley Girl]

But, then I'm ever mindful of the variety of members, and all the ages, so I tend to meter my responses. :halohead:

Me too. :)

[Windigo]

hmm... let me see...

SEX


nope, guess not _happydanc

[Psyche Ague]

I'm just naturally someone who wants to say what's on her mind...I'm leaving it at that. :whistle:

[Semele]

Also, I feel uncomfortable having any Christians around period. This is a Pagan chat board. Christian chat boards outnumber it by hundreds if not thousands. I look at this place as a refuge from those people, and yet they are here too. I do not think that is fair. I know a lot of people consider themselves Christian witches, but I do not consider any ol person who practices Witchcraft as Pagan. So it makes me question their intentions for being here.

"They" include an administrator of this site. He is not a Christian witch but just an average, God loving Christian. You wantto know what his intentions are for being here? he is keeping this place running so Whiny, judgemental pagans can snub their nose at him and question his integrity when he is only giving of himself without asking anything in return but respect. It will be given.

Do you even know who I am speaking about? If not then that should prove to you that not all Christian folks are guilty of hidden agendas or proselytizing. If you do know who I am speaking of then you should be able to point to examples of his nontolorant or inappropriate behavior towards community members in order to validate your broad generalization and borderline prejudicial comments.

[barlitone]

Not really. This is one of the few places I can actualy talk about stuff.

[Katya]

i talk about anything and everything. if i don't want to talk about it, i don't say it.

[Mindflayer]

"They" include an administrator of this site. He is not a Christian witch but just an average, God loving Christian. You wantto know what his intentions are for being here? he is keeping this place running so Whiny, judgemental pagans can snub their nose at him and question his integrity when he is only giving of himself without asking anything in return but respect. It will be given.

Do you even know who I am speaking about? If not then that should prove to you that not all Christian folks are guilty of hidden agendas or proselytizing. If you do know who I am speaking of then you should be able to point to examples of his nontolorant or inappropriate behavior towards community members in order to validate your broad generalization and borderline prejudicial comments.
Ok, now you just got me curious, lol who're you talking about? :p

[Infinite Muse]

you know what? since i started this post last night; i have tried to go against my nature by saying what i want to say and not "edit" my emotions or content while still remaining within the rules
and you know what its got me? *a bunch* of negativity aimed my direction
but some positivity too
i don't know if i shall continue speaking my mind
or if i should go back to being the meek, mild, intimidated, insipid, whimpering whinging little blah that worried about offending everyone with every single little word i spoke to the point where i would barely speak
at the moment i am just mad at people who proclaimed to be all open and accepting of other ideas
and then go cut me down when i voice my own, as if *theirs* was the only one that deserved *respect*
so grr, i am angry, and am going to lay low til i burn it off or receive an apology for being called a certain name
grr grr grr!!!

[diamondtiger]

First I'll answer the question. Am I uncomfortable saying anything on MW? No, not really. I find the members of this community to be mature and stable. I think everyone here has his/her own mind, and is capable of deciding whether or not they find offense in a topic or post. We each have the right to choose what discussions we participate in/or don't. With that said, I also believe that we share the responsibility of respecting others. There are many young and impressionable minds who are members of this community. It is out of respect for them that I do not swear or discuss “questionable” topics. I do write most of my posts in a text editor, because I like to read my thoughts before I post them. I don't write my posts with the intention of offending anyone. It does happen sometimes though when ppl disagree. I don't “sugar coat” my thoughts, I see no point in doing that. I do however, try to keep my posts pg-13 for the sake of our younger members.


Also, I feel uncomfortable having any Christians around period. This is a Pagan chat board. Christian chat boards outnumber it by hundreds if not thousands. I look at this place as a refuge from those people, and yet they are here too. I do not think that is fair. I know a lot of people consider themselves Christian witches, but I do not consider any ol person who practices Witchcraft as Pagan. So it makes me question their intentions for being here.

I won't say that I feel the same way, but I'd be lying if I said that I don't sometimes too. Does that make sense? I understand where you're coming from ~BEBZ~. I live in a “bible thumping” state, where Jesus is pushed down a persons throat around just about every corner. I too like to come here and “relax” with ppl who may share my beliefs, and certainly won't condemn me for them. I won't tell anyone that they don't belong here however. Part of ME is tolerance. For me to tell a person that they “need to leave” based on their beliefs, would turn me into something that I despise. In all honesty, I'm actually glad that Christians find there way here, for whatever their reasons might be. Let them witness, it's part of who they are. If it helps to build strength in their convictions – GREAT! If they learn to understand that Paganism isn't all about worshiping the “devil” and sacrificing animals, virgins and babies – EVEN BETTER! I personally don't believe in a “devil”, but “you” may. I wouldn't let that get in my way of becoming your friend though. And I certainly wouldn't want one of us to leave because of it. Does that make sense?

[Moriquenya]

Yes and no. There were things I was warned about before I joined, so I just don't speak on them. So it's not that I'm uncomfortable, but I don't want to get into stuff.

[Aelfoak]

I like to speak my mind as i am free to do so, but respect for the other person comes foremost in my mind before i post.

[SacredWithin]

there's phrases like "oh my god" that i feel uncomfortable using here because of the connotations
i find myself typing them in and then going back and editing them out so i don't offend anyone or give anyone a wrong impression of my beliefs

Yeah, on my forum, since it is a rule to be mindful of others' beliefs, I try not to say Oh my God b/c I don't want people to get offended. And if so, we normally talk about it anyway. :)

But whenever I speak online or offline, I try to be mindful of who is around me so people don't get hurt.:)

[Xander67]

you know what? since i started this post last night; i have tried to go against my nature by saying what i want to say and not "edit" my emotions or content while still remaining within the rules
and you know what its got me? *a bunch* of negativity aimed my direction
but some positivity too
i don't know if i shall continue speaking my mind
or if i should go back to being the meek, mild, intimidated, insipid, whimpering whinging little blah that worried about offending everyone with every single little word i spoke to the point where i would barely speak
at the moment i am just mad at people who proclaimed to be all open and accepting of other ideas
and then go cut me down when i voice my own, as if *theirs* was the only one that deserved *respect*
so grr, i am angry, and am going to lay low til i burn it off or receive an apology for being called a certain name
grr grr grr!!!

I dont think anyone directed thier comments directly towards you or meant you any disrespect. I would like to appologise if I was one of the persons whom you referred to in your post.

Please dont "Lay LOw" you do have a right to speak your mind. If you feel disrespected then you have the option of sending that person a PM or going to an admin.

[arctic splash]

Yep! Anything that has to do with Christianity or biblical religions. It is very hard to walk the line between showing contempt and showing disrespect. What one finds offensive, many others do not. A lot of people on here are baby's. They whine about everything.*edited* Like this post. I'm sure I will be jumped on horribly, but that's how I feel. I don't think I'm showing any disrespect. But then again many people have varying definitions about Respect. Merriam-Webster simply defines it as consideration.

Also, I feel uncomfortable having any Christians around period. This is a Pagan chat board. Christian chat boards outnumber it by hundreds if not thousands. I look at this place as a refuge from those people, and yet they are here too. I do not think that is fair. I know a lot of people consider themselves Christian witches, but I do not consider any ol person who practices Witchcraft as Pagan. So it makes me question their intentions for being here.

Those are just my feelings. I do not need to be told that I have no place telling anyone who belongs here and who doesn't, I know that. I try not to. I am simply answering the question honestly.

I think the diversity on MW is a wonderful thing -- seeing so many people of different traditions and perspectives come together to discuss pagan topics... personally, it just thrills and energises me to see so much diversity here, and I hope that doesn't change. Welcome all. :)

[Temptation]

I think the diversity on MW is a wonderful thing -- seeing so many people of different traditions and perspectives come together to discuss pagan topics... personally, it just thrills and energises me to see so much diversity here, and I hope that doesn't change. Welcome all. :)

I agree. As long as they don't proselityze. :)

[Bainidhe Dub]

*smiles* The only things I've ever had to keep myself from saying were swear words. True, there have been a couple of times I've wanted to throttle people due to their sheer stupidity, but that's not generally here on MW :) I have no problems saying "omgs" because, well.. Oh My Gods. *shrugs* it's not a big deal to me. Sex? Well, it's a community, and I know there are quite a few members and guests daily that aren't of legal age, so I, again, have no problems with that.

The way I look at it, it just goes back to the community rule. Respect. That goes for everyone.

[Lunamoth]

I certainly curb my language more here than elsewhere, but there's nothing I feel *uncomfortable* saying. In other words, I use restraint out of politeness and don't come off with my usual cutting sarcasm, but not due to discomfort so much as adaptation to the environment. This isn't the place for that, you know? Sorta? :)

[~BEBZ~]

"They" include an administrator of this site. He is not a Christian witch but just an average, God loving Christian. You wantto know what his intentions are for being here? he is keeping this place running so Whiny, judgemental pagans can snub their nose at him and question his integrity when he is only giving of himself without asking anything in return but respect. It will be given.

Do you even know who I am speaking about? If not then that should prove to you that not all Christian folks are guilty of hidden agendas or proselytizing. If you do know who I am speaking of then you should be able to point to examples of his nontolorant or inappropriate behavior towards community members in order to validate your broad generalization and borderline prejudicial comments.
Yep I know who your talking about. I have chatted with him in the chat room and like him very much! He is a real sweetheart. He shows nothing but love and tolerance toward us.

As Xentor said there are some Christians on here because they want to learn more, either to slate their own curiosity or for family members. I sincerely applaud those people! But you are right I did broadly generalize my response, for that I am sorry. Basically I was referring to a few members, who from what I can see do not have any good reasons or intentions for being here. I have seen them put down our beliefs, put down members, and incite discord. I wish I could say that they were going to give up and go away, but alas, most have been here for quite a while. The truly sad thing is that they do it so subtly that they are very rarely ever called on it and seem to be quite popular.

But no, I do not strive to drive away any members. If I see someone who is flagrantly flouting the rules, I will report them and leave that up to the Admins. (Besides anything to try to "convert" *wink* them is great!) I have even been trying to make amends with the few people that I couldn't stand. And it had nothing to do with them being Christians, In fact they are not.

[Yasmine Galenorn]

Is there anything you feel uncomfortable saying here at MW because of the subject matter?

Actually, yes, but that's true for almost every board I've been on in one way or another. Once in awhile I tone down my responses, but usually I either post what I truly think, or I ignore the thread. I admit it--I'm very impatient with people and can't stand whining (as opposed to genuine problems). I'm also pretty hardcore on some subjects and not at all PC on certain issues, and know that my beliefs make some people uncomfortable when I state an opinion on them. But I don't refrain from speaking up about certain issues that I feel strongly on, or when I want to remind people that paganism includes a wide variety of beliefs, not just a narrow field, even when I know it's going to make others upset or astounded that I'd actually say or believe what I said. ~grins~

Yasmine :colorful:

[Radocs]

I generally say what I want unless I think it'll get me banned.

[elfmage]

I feel uncomfortable saying things that are my opinion when I know that people may dislike it, or people may be offended by it.

Silly, I know. Blame it on my insanity and neurosis. Or the fact that I am a Libran! LOL

[elfmage]

Actually, yes, but that's true for almost every board I've been on in one way or another. Once in awhile I tone down my responses, but usually I either post what I truly think, or I ignore the thread. I admit it--I'm very impatient with people and can't stand whining (as opposed to genuine problems). I'm also pretty hardcore on some subjects and not at all PC on certain issues, and know that my beliefs make some people uncomfortable when I state an opinion on them. But I don't refrain from speaking up about certain issues that I feel strongly on, or when I want to remind people that paganism includes a wide variety of beliefs, not just a narrow field, even when I know it's going to make others upset or astounded that I'd actually say or believe what I said. ~grins~

Yasmine :colorful:

Yes! Damn PCness...... LOL

Seriously though, only on some things. Most of the time, it is probably a good thing, but other times..... yeah. LOL

[WingedTigerChild]

This may sound rather contemptuous, but I often find that when someone is offended by what I say, it's usually because they hold an underlying prejudice to the issue at hand and cannot bear to hear the truth of the matter.

[nomadicdragon]

:wtf:

[Semele]

Basically I was referring to a few members, who from what I can see do not have any good reasons or intentions for being here.
*blink*

So, you are saying, with the exception of these few members you can see every other members' intentions and they are pristine? What are my intentions?

We don't know what is going on in another person's life. I have no idea who you may be referring to, nor do I want to know, but perhaps their purpose here has more to do with someone else. Someone else who stands to benefit from their presence and the energy they bring to those who choose to get caught up in it. The fact that you are so drawn to this obvious - to - you behavior may indicate that this person offers you a lesson either directly or indirectly. Take them up on it. It can be invigorating!!



The truly sad thing is that they do it so subtly that they are very rarely ever called on it and seem to be quite popular.
The subtle art of communication shall not be punished so long as the person doesn't insult us with a poor showing! :gagged: That means if we communicate as adults, minus the "bad" words, there should be no need for fits of adolescent rage and curse fests. I applaud people who can convey their exact emotion and thoughts and stay within the bounds of the respect rule. It really is hard to verbally "attack" someone if you are respecting them.

[Ben Trismegistus]

"They" include an administrator of this site. He is not a Christian witch but just an average, God loving Christian. You wantto know what his intentions are for being here? he is keeping this place running so Whiny, judgemental pagans can snub their nose at him and question his integrity when he is only giving of himself without asking anything in return but respect. It will be given.

Do you even know who I am speaking about? If not then that should prove to you that not all Christian folks are guilty of hidden agendas or proselytizing. If you do know who I am speaking of then you should be able to point to examples of his nontolorant or inappropriate behavior towards community members in order to validate your broad generalization and borderline prejudicial comments.
Hint: It's not me. ;)

[Valnorran]

Well, there are certain things I'm uncomfortable talking about, regardless of the environment. And I confess that every so often, I have a particular thought pop into my head that should never, ever, be put into writing...

[Athena-Nadine]

Actually, yes, but that's true for almost every board I've been on in one way or another. Once in awhile I tone down my responses, but usually I either post what I truly think, or I ignore the thread. I admit it--I'm very impatient with people and can't stand whining (as opposed to genuine problems). I'm also pretty hardcore on some subjects and not at all PC on certain issues, and know that my beliefs make some people uncomfortable when I state an opinion on them. But I don't refrain from speaking up about certain issues that I feel strongly on, or when I want to remind people that Peopleism includes a wide variety of beliefs, not just a narrow field, even when I know it's going to make others upset or astounded that I'd actually say or believe what I said. ~grins~

Yasmine :colorful:
What she said. Though I have to amend, "...but that's true of every board..." to that's true of every situation in my life. Message board or offline, it makes no difference to me.

[Tarbh Nathroch]

I feel comfortable saying anything I want. What's the worst that could happen bad karma point.

[Yasmine Galenorn]

What she said. Though I have to amend, "...but that's true of every board..." to that's true of every situation in my life. Message board or offline, it makes no difference to me.

*grins* I didn't write 'peopleism' in my post! :bigredgri

Yasmine :colorful:

[Faerin]

No, not so far :D

[{Tigress}]

Yes, there are many things I am uncomfortable saying but that isn't because it's MW... it's because there are lots of things I just air to people I'm not close to.

[Athena-Nadine]

*grins* I didn't write 'peopleism' in my post! :bigredgri

Yasmine :colorful:
:rotfl:

[WeepingWillow]

I am not uncomfortable saying anything here. LOL I have nothing to hide. :thief:

[charmedkisses1]

Often I'd like to post on an interesting subject but then think of how "politically correct" everyone is here, and how alot of people lash out easily, so I don't.

[charmedkisses1]

You are entitled to your opinion of course, and as long as you don't try to chase any of our non-pagan members away, there's no harm in holding nor voicing that opinion.

However I do need to correct you. This is not a pagan board. This is a pagan community. That means, that just as in any other community, there are people around that are not pagan themselves, but, for instance, related to one (possibly a member), or want to find out more about paganism.

There are members who want to convert pagans to their own non-pagan path, but they are few and far-between, and usually don't stick around for long.

That was wonderful Xen. :smoochypo