I wrote this last night when I was incredibly angry, but I almost feel bad posting it after seeing those men step up. You know who you are and kudos!!
But I still feel about half of it needed to be said - and I'm very glad I waited 24 hours.
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Recently, it has been thought our "golden age" will be regained by Rules, not by inspiration or leadership. By name-calling and disrespect. By belittling and neglect, then anger.
And then wonder ... what's wrong? Aretha can tell you. Respect.
In the past two weeks I have watched:
The minute rules get discussed, the real and percieved lynchings start. Couple slaves, couple Free. One was respectful, one not so much. Still gratuitous.
A few screeds and resignings, homes branded all kinds of really disrespctful, really divisive characterizations.
Free men and women presenting themselves in a petty, vindictive manner in full view. Calling little nicknames.
And my last personal straw, a slave called garbage because she was doing OOC things found annoying. How about "stop that, and now!"?
Pro Tip: slaves arent really "slaves" - they choose a role here. They're people like you and me who have chosen a different station in roleplay. They make decisions every day. I would leave and not return if someone called me garbage. And if they all do that, the leftovers might be less than appealing.
There is a difference between correcting a slave, and calling her garbage.
There is a difference between disagreeing with a point in a respectful manner and calling everyone who doesnt agree with it "stupid" or "insert stupid nickname".
There is a diffference between being abusive and disrespectful, and being firm and uncompromised.
I've removed myself from the rule-making process, the voting and any discussions with regards to it. I've come to the conclusion that for myself, it is not the only answer.
Of course I will agree to logical guidelines/rules why wouldnt I? But the human part of this interaction will not balance on a one-legged stool
Respect is the starting point. Respect for the people you interact with, and for PK's sake - for yourself.
You've got that promise from me - no matter what you do or how stupid I think it is.
I make no promise of my silence.
