Rudeness is not acceptable. I did not take it that he was attempting to start an argument, just saw it as a comment, and knew he had been away for a while and didn't know much of what has recently transpired.

Never, ever post that you think someone is trying to start an argument. Even if that was not the poster's intent, that's a sure way to escalate the situation. The better thing, if you think someone HAS posted just to make trouble, is to PM me.