It seems that Hillary_Step is simply pointing out that a discussion board like this one, has its place but it is not real life.
I think it is entertaining and at times helpful to people leaving the JW set up. But it is a mistake to take it too seriously and become emotional involved at a deeper level.
Deep emotion should be reserved for life and real live friends that we can hug and look at. People come here to let off steam or enjoy the 'self directed emotional masturbation' that HS referred too.
There is at times genuine emotion , usually shown by the less seasoned punters. The old timers just like a good scrap and a chance to show off - myself included.
Those that spend huge amounts of time here and see it as a substitute for real life interaction are setting themselves up for depression.
trevor