Automobile Enthusiasts

Chillfactor, I, too, have to depend on others for rides and the lack of independence is often frustrating. Furthermore, when I lived alone, I also went without groceries for several days at a time.

That being said, it did not seem to me that Mopar151 was questioning your competency to drive in his/her post # 40. Nor did I sense any unkindness was meant.

Discerning someone's "tone" in this sort of written communication can be tricky. A good rule that I try to keep in mind is to give folks the benefit of the doubt and assume that they aren't being deliberately insulting or mean spirited. Not everyone can express themselves best with the written word and some people just have a brusque style.

Only when someone is consistantly lacking in understanding or a willingness to respect the other person's point of view do I take a "tough" tone when responding.

A Heretic I Am was certainly trying to respond kindly to your first comment in post # 31. Perhaps you interpreted his/her suggestions as glib, because he/she certainly did not know that you are retired and live in an isolated area. The points
made about changing one's situation in post # 34 were, no doubt, meant to be encouraging and he/she did try to empathize with you by noting that he/she had gone without a car at times, too.

Now I am going to make a point as gently as I can, because my purpose is not to insult. OTOH, I can understand your POV if you don't like my opinion.

Your comments in post #31 struck me as self-pity tinged with a little resentment. That's why A Heretic I Am pointed out that he/she was "just a working stiff".

The OP was meant to be a bit of good-natured showing off in celebration of something nice happening in Heretic's life. It was posted to the Automotive Enthusiasts Group because Heretic just plain wanted to share his/her enthusiasm.

Are you an Automotive Enthusiast, Chillfactor? Why else post in that group and what was the point of your statement in post # 31?

Mind you, I haven't said a word about cars in my post so maybe I am the one completely out of line. It's just that I am new here and I have noticed some members having reactions to others or making comments that remind me of a famous saying, (my own, actually ) that, "Some people go around in this world in bare feet, just waiting for someone to step on their toes."

Given a choice, I think it's important to assume the best when possible, and dismiss negativity if the point being made doesn't further the discussion.

And, THAT, as they say, is just my two cents. Peace to you, Chillfactor.

As for you, A Heretic I am, in an effort to join in on the primary discussion, BRAVO!

Thank you for sharing something nice. Congratulations on your hard work and I admire your forthright outlook on life and your wisdom in finding joy in a confusing world.

I am not an Automotive Enthusiast, but I appreciate enthusiasm when it doesn't start fires or shoot people. (You got that that was a joke, right?)

Good for you and may the blessings of St. Jay of Leno be upon you.