I was a little surprised to learn that many people do not REALLY UNDERSTAND the purpose of JWD. Many are focused on freedom of speech and the fact that this is a "discussion" board. To some this does seem to go against the heavy moderating the board has seen lately, feeling that discussion is suppressed, some going so far as to suggest that mind control is subtly involved here as in the organization.
I may be wrong in what I'm about to say, but this is my impression.
The purpose of this board is to provide a safe place for Jehovah's Witnesses, former Jehovah's Witnesses and those interested in them to discuss topics related to JW's that can assist them in their discovery and recovery from facing the truth about 'the truth'.
This is why I am here, and many have benefited from the approach this board has taken. A young lady last night told me this site 'saved her life'. It is the intent of the owner and moderators of the board to keep this site just such a safe place. We allow for a variety of different subjects not clearly related to JWs and tolerate a certain amount of aberrant comments realizing many here are dealing with serious emotions as they make this journey. Thus the posting guidelines are just guidelines and moderators use their best judgment in dealing with disruptive behavior. That 'best judgment sometimes result in editing posts and from time to time removal of posting privileges of those who disrupt. And I might add none of us are without error in making these judgements.
This is understandably offensive to those who are resentful of the abuse of authority they have experienced in the past, as well as those who feel freedom of speech guaranteed in the US means they can say anything they want anywhere they want. I personally apologize for any insensitivity that may have been displayed in the way your difference of opinion was handled. However, it has been demonstrated, I believe, that most here see that unlimited freedom of speech can hurt others, especially the timid JW lurker whom we are hoping to make feel welcome. For this reason JWD will not change, if my perception of it's purpose is valid.
While I am asking for your expressions here, this is not going to be a debate about "moderation". This thread is about this being a place to come to learn and share what you have learned, to receive support and to give support as survivors rather than a place to vent your anger, attack your enemies, or assert one's perceived freedom of speech.
That's what I think the board is about. What do you think.
Steve
Naww, edited again to put controversial paragraphs back in