Just started

[polymath257]

It doesn't bother me excessively. It just sucks that a few idiots ruin things for everyone else. I was a bit surprised at the third degree I initially got from here, but I understand the reasons now.

Ah, you underestimate the power of the crank. Often, people here and elsewhere find themselves thinking "Is this yet another iteration of the same twit?" That happens. How could it not, given those willing to create any amount of sock-puppet accounts?

You are the captain of your soul. Just be yourself and be honest. Most here will accept that and give you honest argument in response. If you are a sock of some former member, then you will be found out in short order. If you are not, simply post whatever it is you wish to post and worry not a whit about it. Start a new thread about whatever it is that bakes your noodle about theism/atheism. Or whatever topic takes your fancy. See what happens.

You are learning the ropes for this site and we are learning your ropes as well. It is the tapestry of human interaction like it or not.

Gird your loins for robust responses from both sides. Such is the cut and thrust of online debate.

Oh, I have frequented a number of discussion forums in my time (I go back to Usenet). I am quite aware of the impact trolls, sock-puppets, and other such pricks.

And I enjoy robust responses. I just have to learn the local social customs.