Originally Posted By davewasbaloo Just a quick drive by post, if it is even read. I will admit I was a bit snipy before we went to DLP and could have been much nicer in the way I presented my arguement. A lot of my posts are on the train on a hand held. If I have had a bad day and have seen red about something I ma passionate about, I will let it poor out. I am very protective of what I love about Disney (to an unhealthy extreme), and will argue about it in an attempt to turn the tides. I am considering some major life changes right now, and I think some of my posts were a manifestation of a wait and see approach I have had to contend with in my projects as well as with Disney. I am not willing to stand idly by, and therefore I wrote some things that could be seen as ascerbic, sadly if it were face to face, hopefully it would not be perceived as such. The reason I have been around for 8 years of LP is because I like the fact the community is full of mature adults ripe for debate, knowledgable, and not blinded by the "magic", yet still see, feel and love the magic. Before our departure I seriously considered leaving the web communities. But that would be cutting my nose off to despite my face. While we were away, we thought much about the real friendships we have made, and how much we missed our friends at DLP. We met other friends at DLP (great having lunch as always UKFAN, MSEP003 - great to see you albeit briefly). These encounters we would never have had without LP. I still do not think the boards are good for me. But I do not want to miss out either. Yours perplexed, davewasbaloo BTW - DLP was the best it has been since 1992. Some great things to report when I get time.
Originally Posted By davewasbaloo Also, the ignorance quip was about Disney, not any individuals on the boards.
Originally Posted By LuLu >>will argue about it in an attempt to turn the tides.<< I don't think arguing *ever* turns the tides. I'm not sure even presenting your argument kindly and rationally turns the tides. People pretty much believe what they believe. Very few are on the fence and willing to go one way or the other. One case in point: this topic. Those who would "benefit" the most by taking some of these points to heart, either won't read, won't recognize themselves, or think the points are without merit. Similarly, some of our opinions on *hugely* controversial changes at DL: just b/c they don't infuriate us doesn't mean we're stupid, don't "feel the magic," or "less than." OR that we need or viewpoint changed! I've enjoyed reading this topic and have found myself agreeing with some of the varying points of view. I think it's cool that JiM can "argue" respectfully with others and enjoy it. My stance is probably more on the side of those too sensitive to get into the arguments, so when I see cantankerous topics, I tend to stay away. Sometimes when I feel the need to post, I'm afraid to go back and see the response! I have certainly been there with those who have gotten totally bent out of shape over things others have posted. But, I also agree that we should "consider the source" (as my mom would say) and try to let it roll off. Not easy to do, I know!! But remember: "It's more about THEM than it is about YOU!"
Originally Posted By LuLu My disclaimer: my post isn't directed at dwb or any particular individual - just my general thoughts.
Originally Posted By liveforvacations I agree with Lulu that in general you cannot change most people's opinions no matter how hard you tried. This also works vice versa. When I first joined here, I read a lot of the topics that talked about DCA and how horrible it was. I presented my opinion that I liked DCA but I found that it was just greeted with negativity and that attitude that there must be something wrong with me for thinking this way. I figured, "whatever" and I just stopped reading those topics because I knew that I wasn't going to change anyone's opinion but most likely would end up with hurt feelings. I think the best thing about getting into a disagreement here on Laughing Place is that you can choose to not read that topic again and just walk away! No one can follow you and try to force you to discuss it as can happen in person. Then you can go onto some other topic and even if the poster you disagreed with joins another topic, it doesn't have to be uncomfortable like it would in person and you can avoid the original discussion. That is the reason why I find it easier to avoid conflict here than in person and to just walk away if my feelings get a little hurt.
Originally Posted By davewasbaloo True Lulu, I think I need to find new ways of presenting myself in real life as well as on the boards. I really would like to voice an opinion that attempts to swing Disney back to taking risks, entertaining us by bringing us something we do not expect, and edutaining us. As it seems almost impossible to get inside to do this, I have always posted on the boards in the hope of being heard. I recognise people are entitled to their own opinions, but when they defend the direction of travel that I really disapprove of, then I tend to voice raw emotion (stupid of me I know).
Originally Posted By Jim in Merced CA <I think it's cool that JiM can "argue" respectfully with others and enjoy it.> Hi Lulu!. Just to clarify -- I've gotten peeved -- really peeved regarding topics that I've participated in -- both here and on other sites. I've even made the 'I'm leaving and never coming back' type of post on another site. That said, I still do enjoy the discussing of some topics ad nauseum (ie: new music in the Sunshine Plaza, 'Superstar Limo' wasn't all that bad, Grizzly River Rapids could use AA figures), and will continue to discuss them as long as there is....discussion left in the world.
Originally Posted By LuLu Dave, I think you're an idealist. Certainly the world needs those! But my guess is that idealists encounter substantial frustration in life, b/c life will just never be ideal! I don't think you're stupid at all (far from it), but I *personally* would never expect my opinion to influence Disney in any way, no matter who or how I got someone to listen to me. Perhaps some LPers who get annoyed with us "eh, whatever" change-accepters feel that our opinion might influence Disney adversely. I could understand that getting them (or you?) upset! I doubt Disney cares, I think they just want to see the bottom line (please, let's not start a discussion here about that! Just trying to say that I might see where you're coming from ;-). Understood, JiM. I probably read very few of the topics you actively participate in but see what you're saying. >>That is the reason why I find it easier to avoid conflict here than in person and to just walk away if my feelings get a little hurt.<< I love your perspective lfv!!
