To theists

[Excited Penguin]

I'm looking at the results of the poll.

I myself assumed that most theists who come here do so with the intent of trying to convert. I'm surprised that I was wrong and that only 1 out of 3 theists who come here do this, and that the majority really just come here for discussion and that's it.  

I think the results of this thread are definitely something to keep in mind when a new theist shows up on the forums. Take it a little easier on us and don't assume we're all trying to convert people all the time.

The thing is, actions speak louder than words. A lot of theists type at us from the very start with strawmen, proselytzing, and throwing [insert holy book here] verses at us; things we perceive partly as attempts to convert, but mostly it's just very rude. New theist members also tend to be the most chronic rulebreakers.  

I'll admit, we as a community can be a bit harder on new theist members because of our history with the above, but people like you have had it much easier here because you didn't do those things. Put more simply: you show respect for the forum, so I know I can speak for at least some of us when I say that's why we respect you back.

I count myself amongst those who respect theists who don't break the rules.

Nevertheless,

I find it counterproductive to be too lenient as to one's stated beliefs if they happen to be wrong and ultimately evil, be it that they know it, or not-- as is more often[universally, really] the case. If one supports the Catholic Church, for example, I will judge that person partly on that and nothing will stiffle my criticism in that direction, regardless of how well one comports himself.