On Mon, 16 Jun 2008 10:35:28 -0400, Gene Kearns
wrote:

On Mon, 16 Jun 2008 10:09:20 -0400, Reginald P. Smithers III penned
the following well considered thoughts to the readers of rec.boats:


I completely agree with all of your comments, but why have you never
directed one of the most prolific trolls in rec.boats? It seems he
respects your opinion, and you might be able to have an impact on his
behavior.

That is a fair question and I can think of at least 2-3 posters that
might fit that description.

In the many years that I have posted here, I have learned that some
people just aren't willing to change. In fact, they will spend
countless posts talking about how they are going to change and quit
trolling because of how useless other posters are.... that it just
isn't worth their time. Obviously, those are disingenuous posts and
they've never stopped. They never WILL stop, because they enjoy being
puppeteers. Some people never realize they are being puppets.

I often write long and logical discourses to the trolls on why they
should look at their own posting behavior and just stop trolling. I
almost always throw the posts away, because I know.... even though I'm
trying to help.... I'm only going to feed the trolls. Been there, done
that, and never had ANY real success. I quit feeding. I've found that
I can make the choice to be a puppet or not. Once in a while, I'll let
one through, if I think the person has a real interest in stopping the
flame wars.

There are no fireworks to watch.... no real eye candy, but trust me,
ignoring a troll-post causes quiet anguish and sorrow..... fanning the
flame wars just makes for more troll-happiness.

Posters, it is up to you. Quiet troll-ending non-response and the end
of flame wars, or a continuation of tit-for-tat and a 100% iron clad
guarantee that the flame wars will continue and flourish. Man-up and
make your choice or continue girlie dancing to the puppeteer's
whim....

Amen, amen, amen.

(To the tune of "Amen")
--
John *H*