It seems like most of the people who leave PT do so calling us judgemental. I have even had that directed at me personally several times from people on here. Never in "real life" have I been accused as such so I am not too worried. However, it does irk me a bit.

We all love animals here. We love every animal. We have some members who are more knowledgable about cats, some about reptiles, some about bunnies, etc etc etc. I'd say 90% of the people who give advice about what they are knowledgable in, do it in a very constructive manner. They care about other animals and want to help others take better care of their own animals.

Does that make them judgemental? Is someone judgemental if they try to educate you about declawing your cat? Is someone judgemental if they give advice on proper bird nutrition? No. It means they care.

As far as the religious debates, most of that even gets discussed in an appropriate manner. Most of us are very respectful and nonjudgemental of other peoples' views. There are a few bad apples, but there always will be, anywhere you go.

Regarding the conversation about animals having souls, if the original opinion was expressed in a less aggressive manner, I'm sure it would have been respected. It was played off as fact and pretty hurtful to us animal crazies.

As I type this, my Shiloh is in my lap. She's making biscuits and gazing into my eyes purring. I try to think of her without a soul .. and well, its just not possible.

Some people complain about how they have to censor themselves on this board. Well, think about it. We have people of all origins, ages, and backgrounds here. Would you go to a public place and start yelling out your opinions without thinking who's feelings you may be hurting? People have to censor themselves in the workplace, at school, with friends, with family, everywhere. It is just part of life that you don't go around flapping your jaw offending people just because you're safely hidden behind a computer monitor.

Remember the Golden Rule : Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.