[quote="Beathan":2vfgdeyt]Carolyn --
The purpose of this thread was to increase the connections among members of our community -- both newcomer and oldtimer.[/quote:2vfgdeyt]
And it has. It has made clear that certain 'oldtimers' in positions of authority despise 'newcomers' they've never met. That might not be pleasant but it's communication.
[quote="Beathan":2vfgdeyt]This discussion of whether D/s is a sexual orientation and, if so, whether it deserves social recognition and civil rights as such is interesting -- but non-topical. Please, if you must consider this discussion, do so on another thread.[/quote:2vfgdeyt]
You should know better than to imagine that starting a thread on any forum grants you ownership of it.
To repeat for ( is it really?) the fifth time. I made a reasonable remark and was attacked at great length for my sexuality. Don't blame me for defending myself. I'll never apologise for that.
[quote="Beathan":2vfgdeyt]I know the leaders of CARE practice thread-hijacking as a standard tactic, but I had higher hopes for the rank-and-file.
Beathan[/quote:2vfgdeyt]
Don't try to paint me as some CARE stooge. I have explained why I am a member. If the leadership of that faction have chosen to take advantage of this debate - which I did not start - to promote their agenda, then perhaps the 'oldtimers' should be less politically inept. Personally I've had my voting decision simplified by 50%.