Yes, I was Sid Fairgate on the old forum. I put that as my signature, but I can see how it could be missed because of the small, gray print. My first two initials in real life are BD, so hence the name change.
Some people may be surprised to hear me say this, but I like McGarrett too. We had some very contentious fights in the past, and there was a time when I stopped posting here for awhile partly because of that. However, as I slowly began posting here again, he extended me an olive branch and we've had nothing but pleasant discussions ever since. We certainly don't agree on everything, but I've found that we share some common ground.
There was also a time when I only wanted to hear a liberal echo chamber, which made me a bit of a knee-jerk reactionary. In many ways, I believe Bernie Sanders opened my eyes to the corruption and policy positions of the Democratic Party that are contrary to what I believe in as a progressive Democrat. I still believe in the same principles I did in the past, but I have become more open minded to other perspectives.
I know there are still forum members who don't get on well with each other, which is a shame. However, sometimes personality conflicts and differences of opinion are so strong that people can't overcome them. I hate to see anybody engage in personal attacks that distract from the topics at hand, and I wish people could resist the temptation to do so. However, I don't think putting every discussion into one tangled thread is the solution.
Thank you, I feel the same about you as well. I enjoy your perspective, and have found there's quite a lot we agree on.
I honestly like hearing everybody's take on the election. I've been on the opposite side of the liberals on this board because I voted for Jill Stein instead of Hillary. However, by challenging my position on her, they have kept me engaged. I often find myself researching the issues more in-depth after reading SER's responses. It keeps me informed, and makes me better able to defend my position.
Absolutely.
I can respect anybody that presents their perspective in a thoughtful manner that leads to an interesting discussion. Dissension will happen from time to time, but we should all strive to stick to the issues.
