British Druid Order

As a few things have happened since the start of this forum, I thought it only reasonable to clarify my thoughts on the role of moderator for you. These are not fixed in stone, but are intended to stand as points of reference to indicate what people can, and should not, expect of me or any other person acting in a moderator role.

The purpose of moderator is to keep the board free from flames, spam and abusive or discriminatory posts.

The moderator is not a referee or an arbitrator. Do not ask the moderator to have a word with someone on your behalf. You are welcomed here as adults and I do not believe that it is an unreasonable expectation that people interact as such. As such, ordinary conflict should be arbitrated by the individuals concerned seeking greater understanding of the meaning behind posts, and if necessary, agreeing to differ.

However, if threads become bogged down in name calling or unnecessarily challenging, moderator will intervene. Initially this will be a request to all concerned to step back and reflect, but ultimately might result in the thread being locked down.

Disagreement and challenge is, however, welcomed. Just keep it civil.

Moderator comments will be in red. If not posting in red, a moderator is posting as themselves.

Thank you, 'Voice,'
I thoroughly agree. As I've said elsewhere, it is perfectly possible to engage in vigorous debate, to disagree strongly, yet remain tolerant, open and, above all, friendly. If we begin from a point of friendship, we can discuss; if we begin from a position of anger or mistrust, discussion can quickly slide into mud-slinging that is unpleasant and unedifying for all concerned. And nobody wants to see that
The vast majority of posts on this forum are, I'm delighted to say, very amicable, frequently witty and usually well-informed. For those few that step over the bounds of amiable interaction, I'm very pleased that we have such a calm, fair and intelligent 'Mod' watching over us
Peace, love and harmony,
Greywolf /|\

I agree, but I would just like to say that if I disagree with someone over one or more points, it isn't personal, it's just a difference of opinion and I may very well agree with the next point they make. Most of the people on here seem to know this.

I always try to be careful of how I word my postings, although misunderstandings still occur. One of my teachers told me 'You have two eyes and two ears, but only one mouth, so look and listen twice before opening your mouth once', and this I always try to do.

I understand what is meant about Moderating, I moderate a few boards on the Net.

Cheers, Ayana