Things have been getting ugly here lately it seems to me. Maybe I'm just noticing it more, but I think some people here are going way over the line in uncivil behavior- insults, hyperbole and even a smidgen of cyberstalking. I hate to say this because of how vitriolic it will sound, but I can't help it- those of you who are doing it make me sick.
This isn't directed at people who lose their temper in arguments and lob insults. God knows I've done that enough times, and have been deservedly troll-rated for it. We can't all always control our tempers.
However lately, I've noticed a small but vocal minority who harbor grudges, go out of their way to insult anyone who disagrees with them.
The first thing I always think when I encounter these people is that they just had a bad day. If they continue, then I just assume they're aggressive Type-A personalities who just don't realize that they are being rude. But lately it goes beyond that.
So, this diary is two-fold. First, a plea for unity. We are never going to get the Republicans out of office if we keep fighting amongst ourselves and making enemies within. There are a lot of things that democrats and progressives will disagree with each other about and there is time to work out those issues, but look at the world! Look at the country! You really think now is the time to focus on giving people who don't agree with your pet issue hell when there are bigger things at stake?
So please, please stop with the insults and the aggressiveness and the bitterness. Try to realize there are real people typing these diaries and comments, people who are generally on your side and share most of your goals. All you do by acting like that is drive them away during this crucial time when we should all be working to defeat Bush and the GOP. Everything else is secondary because if we can't defeat them, we have no hope.
The second reason this diary exists is that I would like to propose something along the following be added to the FAQ-
Although it is not mandatory, users do observe a voluntary code of conduct where they agree to refrain from personal attacks, call-out diaries, and other methods of insulting other users. Recognizing that arguments can get heated, and people can say things they regret, the code of conduct asks that when someone is acting in what is perceived to be an insulting way to another user, apologies will be exchanged and both users will agree to not respond to each other's comments again until they can talk to each other in a mature manner.
There is simply no excuse for the childishness that has gone on lately. I would not dream of enforcing censorship here or banning people, but troll rating is just not enough. I hope others are willing to adopt a version of this voluntary code.