But, once certain thresholds are crossed, I will always speak up. The following is my opinion, and mine alone.
There is absolutely no place on this forum, where racism, bigotry, condescension, and/or any other forms of bullying should be allowed. I come here to read about the watches and experiences other members have. We all have different tastes, opinions, affinities. And that is perfectly normal and expected. I believe expressing an opinion, even a negative one, is perfectly acceptable, as long as it is done respectfully. We will never all agree on anything, so a differing opinion is to be expected. Furthermore, a differing opinion has helped me in the past to see beyond my faulty beliefs and to clarify my thinking.
The Mods here do a tremendous job, putting in countless hours for a thankless job. They do it out of passion and interest. They have no desire to 'police' the site. Quite the opposite, actually, they encourage a free and open discussion and do not meddle until something unacceptable happens. They are the heart and soul of the site and what makes the site 'tick'.
It is obvious that some members come here to provoke and generally harass people. This is, IMO, totally UNACCEPTABLE. As is threatening other members and/or Mods. Would you dare do it in real life? That is crossing not only ethical and moral lines, but also, most likely, legal ones (no legal expert here, but it seems so to me). Seriously? This is what we as a community will allow? If so, I will be the first to go.
I have noticed a nice uptick across the WPS community in recent months. Why let it be ruined by a few bad apples? I say, ignore them and their opinions, as they bring absolutely nothing to the table except pure vitriol. Mods, ban them or their comments if you feel they deserve it. After all, one doesn't become a Mod because he/she has nice eyes.
A Mod is an experienced and knowledgeable person, someone who has proven their worth. The title is not bestowed, it is earned. Therefore, we all, as a community, should respect their work and opinions, as they always put the WPS first.
Sorry for the rant, but I am fed up with reading about a few bad apples crying to Mommy when they feel their bullying should be accepted. Mods, I, for what it's worth, am completely in your corner.
I'm going back to read about the new Lange LE now.