@ Dan: I took the post out of context, and I should not have inserted myself into the conversation quite as violently as I did. I suppose I felt the need to be protective -- a trait that's often misguided.

I like criticism, and disagreement is encouraged -- don't ever feel bad for disagreeing with me!


@Fatalsaint: there's no need to leave. Your viewpoints are very valued as are your contributions. My motive was/is to trying to do my part to keep it enjoyable. After all, we're all in this together.

From experience: It's nearly impossible to convince someone to change their perspective, even when articulately reasoned -- it's one of the less-shiny aspects of human psychology, which implies that people are much more emotional than rational in their choices -- frustrating yes, but only until accepted as a permanent facet of the human condition. So use that to your advantage! Influence with compelling application, and take part in conversation with individuals that encourage development rather than flinging fanboisms. You're on the cusp of transcending the mire and staking a place in one of the most prolific industries that humanity has ever known. Don't give in now.

My sincerest apologies for taking your post out of context.