Date sent: Sat, 18 Dec 2004 16:56:16 -0800 (PST)
···
From: Joe Shlabotnik <rockofjello333@yahoo.com>
Subject: Re: VPFree censorship/suspension
To: vpFREE <vpFREE@Cox.net>
You give no weight to the fact that I am never the INSTIGATOR of these
exchanges.
You also give no consideration to the fact that my replies, including
the last one, to BM's provocative and insulting posts have been calm
and measured. I have refrained from making the kinds of personal
characterizations that so liberally litter his posts. The only thing I
said in my last post that could possibly be construed as a personal
remark was my statement that Bruno seems to have a particular urge to
respond to and "refute" MY posts. This is obvious and undeniable, and
to simply point that out doesn't seem to me to be the kind of personal
attack you are trying to squelch.
I also strongly protest your policy of allowing the original insulting
posts to remain on the board, while immediately censoring my REPLIES.
If I see a post linger on the board, I am forced to draw the conclusion
that YOU think it's acceptable, and then I feel compelled to defend
myself. I feel I have a right to respond to criticism (especially since
the personal attack posts often raise some valid issues along with the
flaming). I have noticed a double standard in this regard; I am not
allowed to respond in kind, or even SOMEWHAT in kind. If someone throws
a punch at me, it's generally accepted that I can throw a punch in
return. But not on this board: I apparently can only rub my chin, say,
"Please, may I have another?", and wait for the headmaster (you) to
POSSIBLY admonish my attacker.
I would ask you, for the sake of simply decency and fairness, to post
this message on the board and let the consensus of VPFree members
decide whether my reply to Bruno warranted "suspension".
If you are unwilling to do so, then please remove me from the VPFree
list, effective immediately. I do not tolerate being treated unfairly,
and perhaps if I did, my life would be easier. C'est la vie.
ROJ