Okay, I know that troll-bashing is last month's style, but this needs to be said.  Virtually all of the reader posts on TPM are well thought out opinions that have been formed through life experiences and observations.  As I have begun to post myself I have a new appreciation for most participants in this site (Genghis, Akbar Jenkins come to mind) for their prolific, high quality writing.  I also have an appreciation for those who put their emotions on the table when talking about the issues of the day.  I have read posts that almost bring a tear to my eye or make me laugh out loud (which is a bit awkward in an office). 

I understand that this will make me sound like a doe-eyed neophyte, but I am amazed by the forum we have here, and I keep track of my posts with rapt attention, as I am keenly interested in what other people have to say about my thoughts.  When one of my posts makes the recommended list or sparks an interesting conversation, I am proud, and I try to consider each comment that is posted as if I am standing in the same room having a conversation. 

That said, I am dissapointed  and angry that there are those in this community who never let us know what they think, only that they disagree with what you think.  There is no prize for being the first to respond with an insult or oversimplification of someone's views.  If you want to put your argument forth, by all means, put it forth, in your own post with the reasoning behind it so that you can be heard.  Posting stupid, simplistic snipes in the comments section makes you about as respectful as as people who throw rocks off of an overpass.