If you don't find OH helpful and supportive

One more reason I absolutely LOVE your posts Lithia.  Every single word you wrote above is spot on. Since our "hearing" on the internet is non-existent, we must use any means available (and that differs by forum as you pointed out) to emphasis our points.

To do less is to actually INVITE mis-interpretation, at least in my mind.

Great post. And great thread Kelly.  I too have problems many times just letting things roll off my back.  And I don't think we have to.  We are entitled to our opinions, and we are entitled to state them.

That being said however, I try to remember what a very wise man once asked.  His words were, "Would you rather be right? Or would your rather be happy?"

I love you!

Kelly I think you do have lots to offer as do many of us vets. I will go on record here though stating that post like these are unnecessary. It accomplishes very little except keeping drama going and I would be speculating but those that feel some are bullies, meanies and so forth ammunition as to why they feel this way.

You know in your heart you are here to help. No need to justify that to anyone else.

People need to take what they want and let the rest slide.

I absolutely agree that restarting a drama post serves no other purpose than to continue the drama.

All the vets know that the majority of the people on this site respect what they have to say so why get their panties all in a bunch just because a "few" people disagree with the majority?

I think the vets are invaluable, too. I'm grateful for them. 

I don't think Kelly was "getting her panties in a bunch" or just "continuing the drama." I think she was expressing legitimate feelings and making a point. Good for her.

I have seen posts that I can understand some people taking offence to. The thing is, there is no reason to take offence. You are all here for the same reason: to seek or give out encouragement and help. We are all going through the same basic thing. As one other person said, it is tough love at times. But what do they expect you to do? Tell them that their behavior is fine even though you know that what they are doing can cause serious problems to them? If that is the case they should go invest in a teddy bear. Real people have real feelings, thoughts and opinions and you cannot ask for those without knowing you will see atleast 1 comment you do not like.

Really I think some of the people that are saying others are "mean" or "bullies" are drama queens and just like to see posts like this one. Then they secretly laugh to themselves thinking "see I made them react like that". Well guess what, keep making people react, and when you DO need help they just might tell you where to shove it.

What it boils down to is if you don't like the way people are here don't come here.  If it makes you feel uncomfortable then it is simple to find another resource.  Whyever would you want stress in your life like that?

Well to answer the original question, the same reason people stay within dysfunctional and possibly toxic families.

It's what you got. And not just here. All WLS forums seem to be the same that way.

I think this has been a fantastic resource.  I think it's one of those things though...take what you like and leave the rest.  If you don't agree with something, just don't agree.  Big whoop.