Thinking of Leaving

[Burly Brute]

I will admit that I haven't been as active here for the same reason. I think I know the threads you're talking about. No one was arguing, no one was espousing one particular religious belief or political system over another, nor comparing one belief or system to another. The threads were closed because there was the hint of the potential that it could happen. Ultimately, we don't own the forum (even though we make it happen and it wouldn't exist without us...) so we have no say in how the rules are enforced. But it does seem to me that if we're holding a civil and polite discussion, with no hints of degenerating into a slam fest (like the threads I'm thinking of that got closed down... just because...) then why not allow them? We're not children. Biblemonkey, I'm glad you started this thread, because I was thinkin' it. If you do decide to leave this forum, you still have my email address. Cheers, brother. (And I would like to point out here that I am a pagan minister. I just referred Biblemonkey as "brother." If a Bible monkey and a pagan minister can be friends, then that has got to say something positive about the maturity and tolerance of the people on this board!)

This is one reason I enjoy coming on here so much. It may come as no surprise to many of you that I am Biblical Studies student at a pretty conservative university (since I talk about it oft, and I freakin use Scripture in some of my threads! [is freakin' PC?]) However, as of yet this has not interfered with any of my relationships on here with fellow scotsmen/kilt wearers. Can we not find unity regardless of our divisions? I would be a poor testimony of Christ if I didn't love all creation, and I would assume Nighthawk has the same sentiment, only to that which he holds sacred.

It's definitely a touchy subject, mostly because we make it that way. And although this is a kilt forum, religion/politics is going to come up because as humans we are drawn to that which is beyond us and our understanding and we have our ideals that we hold dear.

I already posted something in consideration to Biblemonkey's plight, but I had to commend Nighthawk for stepping out and pointing to some relevant truth. That we can be united regardless of our differences. And from personal experience on here, I think intent goes a long way. There is a difference in something said being offensive, and the person who said it trying to be offensive.

My apologies for the long rant, but this forum is what gets me through my days at the office so I need you guys to get it together!!!!!

-Zach