I also find it unethical (even if it only by my own ascribed set of standards -- which Wylie's mom has said does not make mine wrong even if others --presumably even the moderator-- disagrees with me) for someone to use their moderator powers in the
same posts they are stating their case in such a heated debate, time after time. I wholeheartedly agree that moderators deserve the right to their own opinion ON ANY issue, but it is highly out of the ordinary to
argue with the same people you are deleting, admonishing and closing their threads. It becomes very difficult to see where the "edict of the moderator" stops and "personal opinion" starts. I apprecate that Wylie's Mom owning a tri-color dog herself, makes for a difficult predictment. Perhaps someone else could exercise moderator powers in threads where one moderator wants to engage in debate?? Just asking and again, just my opinion and suggestion -- not in any way saying I would not accept what already is in place. Just throwing an idea out for consideration.
But I think the instance of Rhett's_mama's post being deleted and then a comment that made it sound like she was calling people here stupid illustrates my point. She did not call anyone here stupid at all. But this is where I think trying to moderate when you are also arguing with those you want to moderate, can result in
biased and
partisan decisions NOT in keeping with the otherwise
broad-minded dispensing of justice. Probably wasn't even a conscious mis-interpretation at all, it just is natural when we are emotionally invested in a debate.
I know this will probably get deleted too but, I believe I need to at least try to voice my opinion. In the Rules & Guidelines it says that posts WILL NOT be deleted unless they break the rules. I believe I have presented my ideas without breaking any rules or guidelines. I KNOW the moderator's job is a difficult one and I think everyone here has done an exceptional job. Pls do not think that because I mention one area that I might not see eye to eye on that I have an overall negative view -- NOT AT ALL!
I truly enjoy this site and speak highly of it in other realms.