Thin skins.. hear that a lot. (Not a personal reply, but an observation)
It is a pragmatic observation, an admission of surrender, and a bully's mantra, all in one.
1. Yeah, if you are afraid of being dissed, consider writing letters to the editor. But you don't have to take it lying down; or, just don't go to that website. If you get abusive emails, tell your internet provider and/or block their mail.
2. Don't let jerks take over your favorite web site. Complain to the webmasters. DON'T joust with the jerks, that's what they go there for. Think of a website like a neighborhood pub or mom and pop restaurant; if bully's hang out there, business suffers, unless they want to cater to a rough crowd. If you don't like the ambience, don't go there. Complain civily to them if someone's being a jerk. And, to continue the metaphor, no one has the RIGHT to post and comment on a private website, it is private property paid for by the holder. They can always take their trash talk down the line.
3. The first thing bullies want is your silence and compliance. "You need thick skin" can be a warning, or it can be a derisive game.
I keep participating because we have good webmeisters and many good participants.
