Message board vs Chat Room

[40days40years]

I guess that is one of the debates here. Should a message board be used as a chat room? In the old days the messages would go from part 1, part 2, part 3 and you could rummage around in the archives and get valuable info. Now many threads are chat room dialogue and thats all they are. I certainly don't want a Philip Rosenthal style message board where you can't go off topic or meander around but reams of chat room dialogue which we did not have in the past (or at least very little) will make it hard for present victims in E/N to get to the truth. There has got to be a balance somewhere. Comments, solutions?

[dust]

Here is what factnet has to say:

Our purpose is to provide an open forum for people to present their personal experiences in a safe environment regarding the "cult watch" and "mind control watch" related topics provided by FACTNet Inc.

[matt_hatter]

Solution:
1. Start as many EN related threads as you wish.
2. Encourage others to stay on the topic of the thread.
3. If the bunny trail threads irritate you, don't read them. Some, however,do find them an "open forum to present their personal experiences in a safe environment". If you don't, then simply don't read. Simple as that. Like an encyclopedia, you don't read every page, just the ones that interest you.

Believe me, I know I've gotten the message. Your threads will not be interrupted by me. Let all be happy.
http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/happy.gif

[miltietoast]

you know me chat board vs message board what is the difference? Like what is the difference betweeen adultry and forn ication? One newly save convert said he had tried both and could not tell the difference. Is this a bunny trail or am I lost? Sorry for the bad confession krems

[matt_hatter]

Miltie, shut up and check your email.
Lovingly,
Matt

[40days40years]

O.K I really do like you guys. How else would I get insight into Bob W, Rice, Phil....etc.

Look this was going to be my plan, resurrect the old Maranatha site here and turn it into a chat room where anything goes, I was going to make a new post like Party on Bobs lawn. We could all visit each other. John could have a thread on monkey spanking over there and a thread on How to Love Jesus more over here. I guess the moderators decided to fold that old abandoned Maranatha board over into this place unless my eyes missed it. It could still be done since this place is technically the MSI/EN center. We could have sister sites. No rules there, rules for the EN kids in bondage who would not respect the jokes going on here at times.

Miltie a message board has more relevance usually. There is a differance, a chat room is just a place for friends to post nonsense like I bring the donuts you bring the beer. Okay I am bringing RR. No bring Bud. No I'm buying it take it or leave it. Hey guys a pail of blue paint fell on me today I looked like a smurph. You always look like a smurph......on and on. With all the stuff you guys post you will be at the top of the pile on factnet.

One thing though I do not want is a Philip Rosenthal style message board here where no off topic conversations are allowed. Sure if you invent a thread the "keep it on topic" idea is great but if you invent 50 threads? No Way.

[40days40years]

STOP Do not create another site I have found an abandoned building for a party called Maranatha Later Rain, a free donut if you guess the creator. No one is using it, this guy called Bob W is on vacation. The place is about 40 or 50 cults down, if you post you can bring it up here on Milties truck. You MCM guys are leadership take care of that house for Bob.

This might work. Turn that place into a chat attack. If you have problems organizing I can send Philip over to help. More chat stuff there, more serious stuff here and you can post all you want about religous guys not getting it. Look this is a stewardship thing that Maranatha house should be turned into a shelter for frat boys or something. Hey, this is all joking guys.

[matt_hatter]

NOt a bad idea, found the site along with the cuckoos. I will be glad to clean out my clutter and take out the garbage from the EN site. I will come back and post from time to time on serious matters that interest me---(I can be serious at times). I wish all the best as we all continue our trip down the Emmaus Road. That is Mark's heart, not Matt hatter's.

[wisedove]

Matt and 40,
I have been away for a few days. Once again, lots going on here to deal with. I have had a heads up on what's going on here, and still don't see the need for any one to run off. I thought a few suggestions by myself and a few others were wise suggestions and fair, respectful, and reasonable. What happened?

I don't remember (forgive me, b/c I have not read every word here on every thread) reading that anyone should leave and create their own message board. Having an alternate chat room may be fun, and more appropriate, but here, I thought narrowing the threads down to general chat was a place we could all meet if we wanted the funny bunny stuff. Why did things have to get so cruel and ugly?

[dust]

I agree with Dove. I don't support anyone leaving. I think it can be worked out...

I read here, "with God all things are possible." Surely, it's possible to stay and talk and walk and debate and have fun.

I don't want to see anyone go.

[wisedove]

Thanks, Dust. I read on the pumpkin thread that there is a debate over control vs. respect. No one that is recommending trying to keep the fun stuff to a contained spot for the sake of keeping the initial goal of this message board clear and easily discernable to the lurkers and posters is operating out of a SPIRIT of control. It is out of concern and respect.

[matt_hatter]

Posted on Monday, October 16, 2006 - 10:27 am:
(Snippets from forward’s dissertation):
My problem is this...this board has been largely been turned into a chat room for ex-MCMers.

The majority of the postings are inane, mindless drivel with no real value.

this board has lost its voice, its relevance, its purpose. It is become just another mindless chat room for people to talk about whatever comes to their mind.

I propose that there be a separation of the threads at the top level

Post from dust:
I agree with Dove. I don't support anyone leaving. I think it can be worked out...

Another post from dust who started a new thread called “Runway bunnies”:
Lablady,
Me and Wildwood, we're project Runway hooked. I know Kayne or is it Cayne?

So here is my question. You don’t suport anyone leaving, yet, your spouse is free to critisize the “inane mindless drivel” of a group he calls the ex MCM’rs but NOT the author of the Project Runway thread? I, for one have no problem, nor any interest in Project Runway, but using the same measuring standard, your thread falls under each of his indictments listed above:
1. Chat room
2. Inane mindless drivel with no real value.
3. Mindless chat room for people to talk about whatever comes to their mind.

It is this level of inconsistency, leaving one feeling that there is an ax to grind with a particular group of posters, that has caused me and others to just say, “OK, got the message, we will separate at the "top level".

I wish you well in your endeavors to turn the EN factnet threads into what you feel will help those people involved in EN find freedom.

For those wishing to find me, go to the "Religious Cults and Sects" page. Follow your nose.

[wildwood_]

Hey Hatter! I liked the Runway Chat... and did think it was better than fussin... in fact the finale is on tonight and I was hoping to post about it later. http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/blush.gif I thought it was a nice way to try and find some common ground...perhaps if the finale had been on last week instead of a re-run we'd be discussing that now and all having coffee together....(Kona from Hawaii my preferred blend if not Nescafe Mountain Instant) Why even Flo & Miltie & a Hatter stopped by, true they were quick visits but if you'd stayed longer...you too would've been able to spot a crooked hem, poorly sewn sems, and some glaring miscues in the application of spangles....and that was just one outfit in my closet. There's even a rather profound individual named Tim whose sole function seems to be to tell the Designers to "Make It Work".... and I am still hoping, praying actually that we here can do the same...

I miss the all inclusive fellowship on the bunny trails and the opportunity to hang out and discuss mindless drival...sometimes the "mindless drival" yielded the most healing, embracing love of Jesus. I've never been able to keep the "Sarge" from speaking when he felt so inclined, which I've found annoying since sometimes he says silly things...unlike myself who is always correctly profound...http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/crazy.gif..husbands being rather stubborn creatures of their own minds. So, I imagine it is the same with married posters...

I believe Dust when she says she doesn't want to see anyone go... I do not think that Forward wished it so either... I'd like to see you stay and keep posting on any thread or trail. I smile when I see the Matt_Hatter's been on the board...and your wisdom is needed & a blessing. Of course I will find you elsewhere, but those who stumble into this site...just like I did a few months ago...will they be able to find you? Or have a chance to see the hearts for Jesus who knew from the beginning how things came to be... and how to laugh at themselves just a little bit as they start to heal? I hope so... somehow, I'd like to give the Lord an opportunity for a miracle of sorts... and believe that in Him All Things are possible including the Wholeness and Healing of a Factnet Message Board occupied by miserable sinners (certain doctrinal holders who are not miserable sinners but redeemed saints also included) who know the Mercy & Grace of Jesus...

I speak perhaps foolishly, knowing that life is more complicated...and I do not always understand the "Whys"...or that sometimes different paths are needed... It's just that I've never reconciled myself to accepting that fact... When I know absolutely...It should be just as simple as "Jesus Loves Me This I Know for the Bible Tells Me So". We are all little children to Him and my daughter says friends make up by just saying "I'm sorry" especially if they've hurt each other by accidental bumps on the playground or bunny trails... (She does get a time out for on purpose stuff...but that's another issue...entirely...because "Moms" have to enforce the time out & it's just punishing myself sometimes...)

So, I am sorry if my words have ever hurt anyone here. I truly appreciate all and want to post in this Garden with Jesus with all of you as friends... that's from "Susan"... also known as "Wildwood".

[matt_hatter]

Susan, you are a true bridge builder, I am unfortunaltely one who seems to point laser guided smart bombs at them.

My point about the Runway thread. I would be the last to stop a thread like that one from developing. Thought it was a good attempt for unity. But by the indictments flamed our way, it has to be said that it fits the same criteria. (NOT my criteria by the way, I actually read and posted because I enjoyed seeing y'all have fun). But it goes to the core of the thesis: You can't have it both ways. If the complaint is trying to navigate the threads, (which again is not my complaint) then adding another errr...chat room thread ain't gonna help, in the mind of the writer.

Your words have never hurt anyone. You are a true healer, so yes I believe in healing. In fact, I have been hurt by NO words. Opinions just get responses. I don't have it in me to get hurt by words on a board, but will respond, as I have told you before, my mouth is my downfall, and I have proven that truism a lot lately.

[wisedove]

Matt,
(Hi, Susan-that sounds funny here on the board! wow! you are coming out of your closet! We will talk later.)

I was sad when I returned here today to try to catch up. I don't get why there is so much hostility towards my friends. I didn't exactly know where to post this, here or on you guy's new thread. I think it is sad that this has really gotten out of control. They (myself included-I like the bunny trail stuff-if it ever got too wierd for me, I just didn't join in) were not suggesting any one go off and start an entirely new thread on factnet for that matter that is only bunny material. I was actually shocked when I saw that, because to post off of factnet's main heading, starting a thread off of the main site that has NOTHING to do with what factnet is trying to do, well, I just don't get it. No one was trying to run any one off. I am sad that I can't participate over there because I don't like the mocking of two people who have become dear to me off post. Dust and I talk almost daily, and she is an awesome person with a heart like I haven't seen for people or from people in a long time. I remember reading over the summer dust and forward's posts, didn't know they were husband and wife for a while. When I found that out, i thought...this is the ONLY husband/wife team posting here. They have taken a stand for the EN stuff together, and it is powerful. I have gotten to know them off post, and just feel like the mocking that is taking place on the new thread, and the attacks they have gotten here are just horrible.

I just feel sad. I thought a compromise in the middle whre each kind of "visiting" could take place, but in designated areas like the GENERAL CHAT place, would be a respectful way to not run all olver what Bill, Ulyankee, and others have worked hard to create. Things started to get a little out of hand with the off topics, and I just don't understand why things are turning out the way they are here. Well, I still plan on having my off-topic thrad talk under the general chat thread here...perhaps I'll be conversating only with myself, but that is o.k., too. Sometimes it's nice just to vent.

[matt_hatter]

I will show up from time to time, but with the words written above by forward, sometimes the best compromise is to vamoose. The feelings will cool, and dovie, you are always welcome to post anywhere. I do understand that the chat stuff did get overboard at times, so maybe the best thing is just eliminate it.

Please take a moment to peruse around other factnet topic areas. Here is an example: http://www.factnet.org/discus/messages/3/24955.html?1161130888

Sorry j2 forgot how to do the linky-thing.
Some of the stuff on those sites make us all look like first grade Sunday School students. That doesn't make it right, but factnet is not some holy place for the church. Eyes wide open, flack jackets required on some of those other headings.

[wildwood_]

Hey Hatter, thank you for the gentleness of your words, I know that your heart intended all good things...As I'm sure Dustie & Forward also intended only good. Sometimes words on a message board sound like a sign that Jeff Foxworthy uses in his comedy skits: Here's Your Sign...insert term. And the translation muddled. I truly hope understanding hearts brings Joy. And when you all aren't busy in the near future, I still think the Blue Bus should go out for a spin....http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/crazy.gif

I had previously looked at this thing we call Factnet and it is a shark tank...interesting but some of those folks even my Mom & Dad might have had stay in the car & not get out if they pulled up to the house.... You know you are needed here. We need your Merry Heart and your ability to alert when something's stalking a wounded sheep.... I'm glad your blog will stay and keep it's Thread! That makes my heart "Merry" !

And Dovey, I do believe that some posts when done in sadness or venting at a situation which hurt (no none of yours)...causes unkind things to be said because of the idea that other unkind things were said. So in misunderstanding...people hurt each other for what they understood the other person meant by what they said (which might not have been what that person's intent of heart was at all)....and the cross interpetations just escalate and harsh things are said because we all have trouble managing that little bitty tongue...Confusing isn't it?

Sometimes, being merciful and forgetting rash words spoken in anger...and just forgiving and going on... Letting the sun go down on wrath...and come back up to a fresh new day with Jesus...Sometimes makes all things look brighter & clearer. Jesus is not confused about the Hearts posting on this board...He knows us, all our hopes, our dreams, our fears, all things...and He Still Loves Us. How can we not love each other when really that's the only thing He did specifically ask us to do??? Those who read this message board will know we are Christians by our love... It has always been so. God Bless All in this House and related Homes, tonight. And off to sleep...I hope...

[40days40years]

wisedove this will cool down why not post at both places? I am sure your friends would not mind. Don't artificially limit yourself.

[forword]

My words and the spirit behind them are being horribly misrepresented by some. However, I am choosing not argue, attack, or defend myself or my statements. As for my attackers, do what you think is right.

[40days40years]

You are right and you are a gentleman, most here would say I am not. The point is if everything here revolves around course jesting, alcohol, bodily functions of differant sorts and making very unconventional choices in life and in regards to faith added with a healthy dose of mindless drivel? The wounded sheep from EN will pay this place no heed. I commend you and your mission, perhaps you would be better off getting a hearty AMEN from someone else but that is life.
This thing Bill and Uly founded and its purpose must be protected. Kudos to you Forword.

[miltietoast]

I don't know how to post anywhere else so I guess i am stuck with krems.Wise you got a class on posting elsewhere over the rainbow?

My brother in laws want to start a home church
They said mark would keep us in the word and Michael would try to keep milty in the kingdom---I said "I like the plan" We shall see what develops

[matt_hatter]

I am merely quoting your words. It was not an attack, nor am I your attacker. What I consider dialogue, you seem to consider persecution. Not my purpose. Provaocative words usually render some type of response.

Forward and 40, you have both made your points. The coarse jesting stopped even before this thread was started. I wish you well in your endeavors.

[forword]

Matt...

I was not going to post any more about this, but I feel the need to further explain myself, based on your last post.

I am not and have never been against casual chats and friendly banter on the board. And I really did not want to create a separation. However, say what you will about freedom and all, many postings were digressing to being very crass and mean spirited. Also, the sheer volume of the bunny trail type post across all threads were over-running the board and thwarting the purposes it was created for.

I have never tried to control or force any changes. I simply made appeals for all to consider. However, the reactions I got were once again, crass and mean spirited, and the problem only got worse. It all just went way too far, to the point that something had to be done. I think it is clear that it is not just Dust and I that feel this way.

So, I made a stronger passionate appeal for consideration, and once again the reaction was extreme. If I went too far and if I offended anyone, I apologize, but I stand by my post. Frankly, it had to be said. I only went to the extreme of suggesting separation because my appeals for all to simply respect the stated purposes of FactNet and to respect those who were actively trying to expose the active EN cult.

Your responses to me, as well as some of your postings on other threads, felt very mean spirited and I felt personally attacked. However, based on your last post, I am thinking maybe this has all be a severe mis-communication, thus my one last attempt at expressing my heart. I do not seek to control the boards or to squash all humor or banter. I am simply appealing for some respect and consideration as to the purpose of this board...a donation supported ministry for the purpose of exposing dangerous cults.

Please, Please, Please, lets stop the war of words. Once again, I apologize if any of my words have been inflammatory.

I Corinthians 12
14 Yes, the body has many different parts, not just one part. 15 If the foot says, “I am not a part of the body because I am not a hand,” that does not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear says, “I am not part of the body because I am not an eye,” would that make it any less a part of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, how would you hear? Or if your whole body were an ear, how would you smell anything?

8 But our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it. 19 How strange a body would be if it had only one part! 20 Yes, there are many parts, but only one body. The eye can never say to the hand, “I don’t need you.” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you.”

22 In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary. 23 And the parts we regard as less honorable are those we clothe with the greatest care. So we carefully protect those parts that should not be seen, 24 while the more honorable parts do not require this special care. So God has put the body together such that extra honor and care are given to those parts that have less dignity. 25 This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other. 26 If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad.

<font size="-2">Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers</font>

[forword]

Matt...

I was not going to post any more about this, but I feel the need to further explain myself, based on your last post.

I am not and have never been against casual chats and friendly banter on the board. And I really did not want to create a separation. However, say what you will about freedom and all, many postings were digressing to being very crass and mean spirited. Also, the sheer volume of the bunny trail type post across all threads were over-running the board and thwarting the purposes it was created for.

I have never tried to control or force any changes. I simply made appeals for all to consider. However, the reactions I got were once again, crass and mean spirited, and the problem only got worse. It all just went way too far, to the point that something had to be done. I think it is clear that it is not just Dust and I that feel this way.

So, I made a stronger passionate appeal for consideration, and once again the reaction was extreme. If I went too far and if I offended anyone, I apologize, but I stand by my post. Frankly, it had to be said. I only went to the extreme of suggesting separation because my appeals for all to simply respect the stated purposes of FactNet and to respect those who were actively trying to expose the active EN cult were ignored and/or made fun of.

Your responses to me, as well as some of your postings on other threads, felt very mean spirited and I felt personally attacked. However, based on your last post, I am thinking maybe this has all be a severe mis-communication, thus my one last attempt at expressing my heart. I do not seek to control the boards or to squash all humor or banter. I am simply appealing for some respect and consideration as to the purpose of this board...a donation supported ministry for the purpose of exposing dangerous cults.

Please, Please, Please, lets stop the war of words. Once again, I apologize if any of my words have been inflammatory.

I Corinthians 12
14 Yes, the body has many different parts, not just one part. 15 If the foot says, “I am not a part of the body because I am not a hand,” that does not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear says, “I am not part of the body because I am not an eye,” would that make it any less a part of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, how would you hear? Or if your whole body were an ear, how would you smell anything?

8 But our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it. 19 How strange a body would be if it had only one part! 20 Yes, there are many parts, but only one body. The eye can never say to the hand, “I don’t need you.” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you.”

22 In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary. 23 And the parts we regard as less honorable are those we clothe with the greatest care. So we carefully protect those parts that should not be seen, 24 while the more honorable parts do not require this special care. So God has put the body together such that extra honor and care are given to those parts that have less dignity. 25 This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other. 26 If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad.

<font size="-2">Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers</font>

(Message edited by forword on October 19, 2006)

[matt_hatter]

As I told uly, my mouth can be a blessing or a curse. In this case, I claim neither, as I have just attempted to dialogue as to why some may have had the reaction they did. For instance, I see a difference in what you wrote, and what uly wrote this morning, it says the same thing, but her post reeked of a healing balm that had both of us agreeing. It did not, however, create the acrimony of calling out a group of folks, that just maybe, looking past the rough "Peter the fisherman exterior", could be some help to some.

Like I said, this is strictly dialogue to me. My life is filled with friends that I constantly banter with because we don't agree.

I do understand, though, given your proximity in time and neighborhood to the EN experience, that our perspectives are way different. So please don't take my words as an attack.

I do remember the days, vaguely, when Allie and I had to start over. I wish you and dust well, because He will be faithful to you as He has been to us.
In His Grace,
Mark