Flies are annoying. They don't know any better. We can swat at them and hopefully get rid of them permanently. Humans are suppose to know better then to persistently and endlessly pester. After all, when a child does it, parents (hopefully) correct them. Should we expect less from adults? Does being an adult mean one now gets to do whatever one wants and that only children should behave? Adults are suppose to understand the value of civility and respect. They are suppose to understand the value of 'if you do this for me, I will return the favor and do the same for you'.

There is a difference between being annoying (which we all are from time to time), and being obnoxious. There is a difference between the sharing of ideas, even debates and arguments, and being intolerant, arrogant and judgmental repeatedly. These latter behaviors do not foster discussions, they are detrimental to them. That is counter-productive to a board such as this - unless one likes a free for all message board. Then by all means - have a free for all. But don't complain if you get smashed in the melee.

Anyone can proselytize. It is not by any means confined to Christians (though certain Christian groups have made it part of their practices), or to a specific belief. Have a belief, and one can push it on others, which is what proselytizing really is. I've encountered militant atheists who are just as pushy and unreasonable as some Christians.

Proselytizing is not supportive of the respect and sharing of different beliefs and ideas. It approaches from the premise that the proselytizer is right and those who differ are wrong. If not, then why is one proselytizing? If one follows up proselytizing by being judgmental (if you don't believe as I do, then XYZ will be your fate) makes the matter even worse. The reason is that no matter how right and truthful one believes their faith (or lack thereof) to be, in the end, it is a belief.

If I had to do it again, I would be more than happy to shove another wheel barrel full of fresh steamy manure under the noses of anyone who insists on pushing their beliefs on me after I have said (as I did) repeatedly (for years, I kid you not), thanks but no thanks.

We are all responsible for our behavior. That includes the proselytizing. No one likes (to borrow the phrase from Mugwumps) a pushy car salesman for good reason. Its the approach that is so objectionable. If you want to have your say, that's fine. If you want to push yourself on another, especially with the 'I am right, you are wrong' approach and 'you are going to pay for your beliefs' (and lets be honest, it is a threat), don't complain when you get a less than polite response.

Some people reach their level of tolerance and 'fight fire with fire'. Others, like me, tend to walk away. I've left this board for long periods of time rather than risk sharing my less than polite thoughts. You want respect? Give it - then you have the right ask for it in return. Don't want to give it? Don't be surprised when you are treated in like kind.