Benefits of EXILE

Welp, I finally did it. After 9 years of being a member of a comic book/all things geek message board I was permanently banned. For what, you may ask--nothing earth shattering I can assure you. In fact its not even that important. Those who wanted me out eventually got what they wanted. Namely me gone. 

I can take solace that the rules had to be stretched, changed and the like to find fault  Basically I was banned for politely arguing. Did I curse? No.  Did I insult? No  However, one of the new message board rules stated  that if a person followed the letter of the law but not the spirit they could be banned.


I look back at it all and it is funny.  The persons I debated cursed, insulted and worse..They did not receive many warnings to watch their behavior.  I waited sometimes for days reading posts to see if any Mod would come in and dish out warnings. Respect other's opinions...etc. etc. The good mods did--others did not.

So my rationale changed--I decided to post as I was posted to--if they were rude..I was polite with a hint of impertinence.  But I was the one that kept getting told off.   In my case--it was like getting a speeding ticket for gripping the steering wheel tightly while wearing racing clothes--and driving the speed limit, as others speed by at 120 MPH in a 30 MPH zone.

But hey, must be my fault. Every-time I am on the road..others have to drive fast around me. Its my fault. To stretch an analogy.

Anyway, enough about that.  There are benefits of being forced out of comfort.  1) I had no idea how much time I spent online.  The world outside is pretty fun. Personally conversing beats text every day of the week.
Inflections, tone, facial expression--and reaction to what is said puts words in context.

2) Sometimes having to watch what you say online (because text/message board posts live forever--and people are less likely to forgive you for a mistake) bottles creativity. Think of having your ideas go through a committee of 12 people.  By the time it comes out..it looks nothing like what you imagined. Online conformity is real.  Don't believe me?  Go in a chat-room and say the exact opposite of what every one else is saying.

3) The problem could be you. (ME) in my case. Everyone isn't going to like the same things I like. Which is a given--its when people hate the things you like and mock you for it..that will test your composure. If that doesn't get you, becoming a Pariah will certainly change your mood.

SIDE RANT---DC Comics character Pariah really is an underused character.  So much potential.


Back on point--We all carry our past with us.  That is why many people move to new cities--for a fresh start.  Online is easier. All you have to do is log off. It will be waiting for you when you come back.

Being exiled could be the best thing that could happen to you.