Warpath Myth vs. Reality

[Coff]

This is all very good, and I appreciate the effort of the mods to some extent, but I would offer one suggestion: I think the mods need to enforce a higher standard of conventional writing. In other words, unintelligible posts that seem to have been written by an illiterate 3 year old with hooves for hands, absolutely no understanding of grammar or punctuation, and zero effort to spell correctly, should be deleted from the discussion, no matter the content.

[FRPLG]

One of my problems lately with this site is that it has devolved into place where everyone justs argues. Just about every decent thread starts off on point with decent back and forth and next thing you know it is 2 or 3 people dominating the thread with their disagreement. I don't say this to whine but I agree that there are too many people around here who either pick fights or are simply looking for disagreement. We don't all have to "drink the kool-aid" but what ever happened to stating an opinion and then letting it speak for itself? Instead of trying to harangue people it believeing it. So many of the arguments center around philisophical gaps that will never change too. It justs seems there are a lot of posters who need to learn to say what they think and then shut up about it. Stop hammering your points all over the place and picking fights.

[MTRedskinsFan]

I just don't understand the Kool-Aid thing. I know what it means but where the hell did it come from?

[JWsleep]

Originally Posted by MTRedskinsFan

I just don't understand the Kool-Aid thing. I know what it means but where the hell did it come from?

Not to ruin your night but: Jonestown - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

[jdlea]

Originally Posted by JWsleep

Not to ruin your night but: Jonestown - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Yeah, I almost pointed this out a few times...the Kool-Aid references are not such a good thing...in fact, it's a little disturbing. Not sure why everyone says it, and I'm by no means limiting that statement to this site, it just seems like an odd statement to me. One of, if not the worst mass suicide in the history of the world doesn't seem like a joking matter to me.

[SmootSmack]

Originally Posted by jdlea

Yeah, I almost pointed this out a few times...the Kool-Aid references are not such a good thing...in fact, it's a little disturbing. Not sure why everyone says it, and I'm by no means limiting that statement to this site, it just seems like an odd statement to me. One of, if not the worst mass suicide in the history of the world doesn't seem like a joking matter to me.

True. Very true. To me it's always been an expression that I don't instantly relate to Jonestown when I hear, but I hear what you're saying.

I mean I get kind of bothered by that one sig we have on here that says "Dan Snyder is the Cancer..." Kind of belittles both Snyder's battle with cancer and the tragic impact of the disease itself, in my opinion. But maybe I'm just overreacting.

By the way, cool story here: ESPN - OTL: Jonestown founder's grandson redeems family name - ESPN

[RobH4413]

Originally Posted by SmootSmack

True. Very true. To me it's always been an expression that I don't instantly relate to Jonestown when I hear, but I hear what you're saying.

I mean I get kind of bothered by that one sig we have on here that says "Dan Snyder is the Cancer..." Kind of belittles both Snyder's battle with cancer and the tragic impact of the disease itself, in my opinion. But maybe I'm just overreacting.

By the way, cool story here: ESPN - OTL: Jonestown founder's grandson redeems family name - ESPN

Wow, crazy story.

Don't know how else to describe it. Pretty amazing.

[MTK]

Originally Posted by JWsleep

Not to ruin your night but: Jonestown - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This is what I relate it to most:

The idiomatic expression, “drinking the Kool-Aid”, was originally a reference to the Merry Pranksters, a group of people associated with novelist Ken Kesey who, in the early 1960s, travelled around the United States and held events called “Acid Tests”, where LSD-laced Kool-Aid was passed out to the public (LSD was legal at that time). Those who drank the “Kool-Aid” passed the “Acid Test”. “Drinking the Kool-Aid” in that context meant accepting the LSD drug culture, and the Pranksters’ “turned on” point of view. These events were described in Tom Wolfe’s 1968 classic, The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test.[4]

Link: Kool-Aid - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

[JWsleep]

It's been tough all over in the redskins nation--who among you has not found yourself snapping at all kinds of things that usually do not bother you this season, especially after the philly fiasco? I know I have.

We've all just got to remember that other posters are just fans, often as pissed off about the loss or whatever as you are. If you find yourself typing some "STFU" type response, hold off on hitting the post button for a sec, and think about rephrasing. It's not such a big deal.

And if you're going to start a thread, look for repeats, and ask yourself if what you've got to say is really thread-worthy, or something that should just be a post on one of the many open threads. Again, not that hard.

The mods don't "work here." They are not the cops or principals or teachers. They're just skins fans trying to make this board work. Sometimes I think folks forget that in the heat of the moment, and act like they're at the complaint counter of a big company. It's not like that, people. They're just trying to make this place work, which is good, because I sure don't have the time to maintain or keep control of this site. But I sure am glad someone does!!!

Thanks Matty and all the mods. These are tough times, but there's no reason to turn on ourselves. THINK BEFORE YOU POST!

[Hog1]

no comment! don't want to get banned

[BrudLee]

I think it's important for those in either the "we're awesome" or "we suck" camps to remember that the truth lies somewhere in the middle (in something of a 5-4 ratio at this time). Were there good things that happened against the Eagles? Absolutely. Were they outweighed by bad things? Yes, by about a 33-25 margin.

It's all math. Do "kool-aid drinkers" have more to say after a win? Sure, they have more evidence. Do "naysayers" have more to say after a loss? Sure, Sally Jenkins let them out of their caves (jokes!).

My point is that the pendulum swings here with the team, and just because your worldview isn't expressed by every poster doesn't mean the opinion isn't valid. Knowing this is how a good American like me and a pinko like Matty can work in harmony.

[BleedBurgundy]

(cough)too many commas (cough)

j/k

[BleedBurgundy]

After the spiritual evisceration that was this past Sunday, I had to take a break from posting about the Redskins on this site. I did that because I felt ultra dissappointed and I didn't want my negativity and irrationality to compound the current ridiculous dichotomy between the kings of kool aid and the haterade heroes.

The break accomplished 2 things:

One, I gained perspective. In the two days since our loss, the following have, statistically speaking, happened- 3,000 people have died from cancer, 731,520 babies were born into this world and 14,000 deer have died at the hands of LadyBrave. Splitting our series with the Eagles isn't that bad.

The second thing it accomplished was to make me appreciate how much I enjoy discussing the redskins on this site. I waste an inordinate amount of time here. And generally enjoy every second. But when people start to talk less about the team and more about how worthless each other's viewpoints are, I feel like the experience is lessened.

Here's what I don't get concerning all of the bitching and moaning: Mods run the site. If they really wanted to unfairly censor those with differing points of view, they'd just ban you and that would be the end of it. Forget namecalling, we'd all just forget there ever was an Offis or a Paulskinsfan or whoever, because they'd cease to exist on this site. Consequently so would a lot of valuable discussion that makes this site so great.

I'm not trying to kiss anyone's ass or anything but I believe that by and large this group of mods does everything it can to maintain and improve the quality of fan interaction on this site. That's not to say that the Mods aren't human. If they care enough about the team to spend whatever ungodly amount of hours it takes to maintain this forum, then obviously they are going to get a little bit annoyed with 14 "Fire Gibbs" threads immediately after a loss. Especially when we have a winning record and at least a puncher's chance to make the playoffs. Believe it or not they probably roll their eyes to the same extent when there are 15 "We are the greatest team since Michael and the archangels took on the Egyptian Firstborns" threads.

What I'm getting at is, take a second to think before you post. Ask yourself- "is what I have to say going to add to the overall quality of the discussion going on right now?" "Am I just venting?" "What am I hoping to accomplish?" "Do I honestly believe what I'm posting or am i just so dissappointed right now that I'm trying to take it out on everone else?" If the answer to any of those is yes, then it's probably best to take a porn break. Come back when you're relaxed.

I have to admit, I am slanted towards taking a positive look at the Redskins if at all possible. (not the easiest when Westbrook runs through the middle of our D for 58 yards and the go ahead score) I'd rather talk about ways we can get better as opposed to ways we suck. If that's not you, that's cool. But I just have to question the fanhood of anyone experiencing schadenfreude over their own team losing just so they can go online and say "I told you so..."

Mods are great and obviously this site would be an absolute disaster without them but I think we can all do our part (especially the ones who've been around for awhile, lurkers and posters alike) to police ourselves. I suggest taking a short break, realizing what makes this site such a great place to waste the workday on and then come back refreshed.

Just a thought...

[MTK]

Originally Posted by BleedBurgundy

After the spiritual evisceration that was this past Sunday, I had to take a break from posting about the Redskins on this site. I did that because I felt ultra dissappointed and I didn't want my negativity and irrationality to compound the current ridiculous dichotomy between the kings of kool aid and the haterade heroes.

The break accomplished 2 things:

One, I gained perspective. In the two days since our loss, the following have, statistically speaking, happened- 3,000 people have died from cancer, 731,520 babies were born into this world and 14,000 deer have died at the hands of LadyBrave. Splitting our series with the Eagles isn't that bad.

The second thing it accomplished was to make me appreciate how much I enjoy discussing the redskins on this site. I waste an inordinate amount of time here. And generally enjoy every second. But when people start to talk less about the team and more about how worthless each other's viewpoints are, I feel like the experience is lessened.

Here's what I don't get concerning all of the bitching and moaning: Mods run the site. If they really wanted to unfairly censor those with differing points of view, they'd just ban you and that would be the end of it. Forget namecalling, we'd all just forget there ever was an Offis or a Paulskinsfan or whoever, because they'd cease to exist on this site. Consequently so would a lot of valuable discussion that makes this site so great.

I'm not trying to kiss anyone's ass or anything but I believe that by and large this group of mods does everything it can to maintain and improve the quality of fan interaction on this site. That's not to say that the Mods aren't human. If they care enough about the team to spend whatever ungodly amount of hours it takes to maintain this forum, then obviously they are going to get a little bit annoyed with 14 "Fire Gibbs" threads immediately after a loss. Especially when we have a winning record and at least a puncher's chance to make the playoffs. Believe it or not they probably roll their eyes to the same extent when there are 15 "We are the greatest team since Michael and the archangels took on the Egyptian Firstborns" threads.

What I'm getting at is, take a second to think before you post. Ask yourself- "is what I have to say going to add to the overall quality of the discussion going on right now?" "Am I just venting?" "What am I hoping to accomplish?" "Do I honestly believe what I'm posting or am i just so dissappointed right now that I'm trying to take it out on everone else?" If the answer to any of those is yes, then it's probably best to take a porn break. Come back when you're relaxed.

I have to admit, I am slanted towards taking a positive look at the Redskins if at all possible. (not the easiest when Westbrook runs through the middle of our D for 58 yards and the go ahead score) I'd rather talk about ways we can get better as opposed to ways we suck. If that's not you, that's cool. But I just have to question the fanhood of anyone experiencing schadenfreude over their own team losing just so they can go online and say "I told you so..."

Mods are great and obviously this site would be an absolute disaster without them but I think we can all do our part (especially the ones who've been around for awhile, lurkers and posters alike) to police ourselves. I suggest taking a short break, realizing what makes this site such a great place to waste the workday on and then come back refreshed.

Just a thought...

excellent post

[mheisig]

Originally Posted by BleedBurgundy

After the spiritual evisceration that was this past Sunday, I had to take a break from posting about the Redskins on this site. I did that because I felt ultra dissappointed and I didn't want my negativity and irrationality to compound the current ridiculous dichotomy between the kings of kool aid and the haterade heroes.

The break accomplished 2 things:

One, I gained perspective. In the two days since our loss, the following have, statistically speaking, happened- 3,000 people have died from cancer, 731,520 babies were born into this world and 14,000 deer have died at the hands of LadyBrave. Splitting our series with the Eagles isn't that bad.

The second thing it accomplished was to make me appreciate how much I enjoy discussing the redskins on this site. I waste an inordinate amount of time here. And generally enjoy every second. But when people start to talk less about the team and more about how worthless each other's viewpoints are, I feel like the experience is lessened.

Here's what I don't get concerning all of the bitching and moaning: Mods run the site. If they really wanted to unfairly censor those with differing points of view, they'd just ban you and that would be the end of it. Forget namecalling, we'd all just forget there ever was an Offis or a Paulskinsfan or whoever, because they'd cease to exist on this site. Consequently so would a lot of valuable discussion that makes this site so great.

I'm not trying to kiss anyone's ass or anything but I believe that by and large this group of mods does everything it can to maintain and improve the quality of fan interaction on this site. That's not to say that the Mods aren't human. If they care enough about the team to spend whatever ungodly amount of hours it takes to maintain this forum, then obviously they are going to get a little bit annoyed with 14 "Fire Gibbs" threads immediately after a loss. Especially when we have a winning record and at least a puncher's chance to make the playoffs. Believe it or not they probably roll their eyes to the same extent when there are 15 "We are the greatest team since Michael and the archangels took on the Egyptian Firstborns" threads.

What I'm getting at is, take a second to think before you post. Ask yourself- "is what I have to say going to add to the overall quality of the discussion going on right now?" "Am I just venting?" "What am I hoping to accomplish?" "Do I honestly believe what I'm posting or am i just so dissappointed right now that I'm trying to take it out on everone else?" If the answer to any of those is yes, then it's probably best to take a porn break. Come back when you're relaxed.

I have to admit, I am slanted towards taking a positive look at the Redskins if at all possible. (not the easiest when Westbrook runs through the middle of our D for 58 yards and the go ahead score) I'd rather talk about ways we can get better as opposed to ways we suck. If that's not you, that's cool. But I just have to question the fanhood of anyone experiencing schadenfreude over their own team losing just so they can go online and say "I told you so..."

Mods are great and obviously this site would be an absolute disaster without them but I think we can all do our part (especially the ones who've been around for awhile, lurkers and posters alike) to police ourselves. I suggest taking a short break, realizing what makes this site such a great place to waste the workday on and then come back refreshed.

Just a thought...

Perfectly stated, Burgandy.

Reading this post just made me realize that of all the time I spend online, and all the hobbies and interests I have and spend time on, this is the only online forum in which I participate.

I've tried others but just lost interest. The conversation wasn't stimulating or sufficient or the place was poorly run. I can honestly say that in a good 15+ years of watching and observing online forums, this is the only one to which I keep coming back.

That all may seem minor, but for me it's a real testament to how well this place is run. A good discussion forum is good because it's well run from the top down.

Yeah we all disagree from time to time, or on a regular basis, but how fun would this place be if everyone was agreeing and saying the same thing the whole time? I've learned more from arguing my point with people than I would by just having people nod and agree.

In short, I love this place, and I love all you guys. ::sniff::

(yes, I suppose I even love offiss and irish too)