Homophobia on Hubpages needs to be addressed
As an out gay man, I'd like to address a topic that I've noticed in recent months that's extremely disturbing. Specifically, I'm talking about forum posts that are nothing more than homophobic sentiments, disguised in the form of a question.
I'm not going to link to these posts because I don't want to shine light on the ugly. But the "questions" asked run the gamut from "Do you agree with gay marriage" to "Homosexuality a Choice?"
It's disgusting these kinds of forum questions even exist.
I would just like to say we are supposed to be a community here on HB. Some of us do identify as gay, lesbian or bi.
If any of us asked: "Are you ok with interracial marriage?", it would cause an outrage. In fact, I'm confident the "question" would be removed. The poster could even lose her/his account.
But apparently, gay folks (still) are are ok to go after. I don't know if the purpose of the posts are to spread hate or if it's a cheap, desperate attempt to increase hub scores. Either way, it's not OK.
So here's my message to the folks who create such posts and to the ones who reply in the comments with judgemental, nasty "that-a-boys"...
Don't assume everyone here is the same sexual orientation.
PS: It sure would be great if Hubpages would create a policy about this topic and enforce it. It's long overdue. In case you haven't noticed, some of your best writers identify as LGBTQ.
First of all I, I find it quite remarkable that there are those here who are so self-centered that they actually believe the world revolves around them. Let it be known that many people comment on Hubpages simply because they can, and not necessarily because they are expecting a response, or affirmation from anyone in particular.
Today I was sitting outside the condo contemplating the hurricane that is about to hit. Of course I could see that the woman across the way was watching me through her window. I have seen her husband who appears to be all used up, and I am sure she would rather be with me. As I was sitting there I saw a little worm at the base of the palmetto tree. He did not even acknowledge that I was there, and in all honesty I must admit, I did not even care.
Hubpages is about making money. But Hubpages cannot make money without people. The fact that this is a privately owned platform, as many here like to point out, doesn't stop the sun from shining. Without the people, it is impossible for Hubpages to make money, and so whether privately owned or not, this is a two way street. And so here is what is going to happen. The ruling elite of Hubpages will look at the situation. They will see that there have been no blatant verbal attacks on homosexual men or women. They will also notice that no one has suggested violence against homosexual men and women. They will then decide whether eliminating all innuendo, as it has been determined by OP, is worth alienating thousands of writers and participants who are apathetic, ambivalent, or who simply don't agree with the homosexual lifestyle.
The batteries went dead in my crystal ball, so I have no idea what the Founding Fathers,Mothers, Sisters, and Brothers of Hubpages will do. But I am certain that if they go the way of the OP, it will sound the death knell for Hubpages. My advice to Hubpages is just the opposite of what the OP is suggesting. I think they should relax the censorship that already exists. I say roll down the windows and "pump up the bass!" Let's face it, preaching to the choir is about as exciting as living in the same house, and having sex with the same person for 6 months. It just isn't my idea of a good time. I am very well aware that God made little green apples, but that doesn't mean we are supposed to eat them.
In that case, I reserve the right to ban comments that slur me on HubPages. I should be able to delete a comment that calls me regressive and likens a simple post to racism. I am offended.
Then again, offense apparently goes only in one direction for some people. They don't like to be offended, but they want to be able to offend anyone they want.
While we are at, I am offended when you say "YOU are free to set up a website that promotes homophobic opinions."
The Wisdom of wrenchBiscuit
And so, you are the one who decides what is worthy of Hubpages, and what should be thrown out with the old Lady Gaga Cd's, the velvet Elvis poster's, and that half eaten Big Mac that is starting to attract flies. The OP has cited a particular Q&A as being derogatory. But I strongly disagree. And of course, since what I express in this commentary is directly related to the OP's commentary, I am on point, and directly on topic. So let us now dispense with the immoral, and unlawful attempts to silence the opposition. Obviously the OP interpreted the question as derogatory and insulting, but I and many others did not view it as such. He also suggests that a similar question about interracial marriage, or dating would have most likely been banned; the implication being that minorities enjoy a favored status here on Hubpages. I am bi-racial, and I do not find such a question to be offensive. Some people simply want to know. But now there is a movement afoot here on Hubpages that seeks to not only dictate the parameters of free speech, but also the "worthiness" of that free speech.
I am not only educated, but I am a very intelligent person. I am also a very kind and considerate person. But neither my superior intellect, nor my great degree of humanity, give me the right to control the self-expression of others. It doesn't matter if I find such self-expression to be pedestrian, ignorant, or mildly offensive. I challenge any heterosexual, homosexual, bi-sexual, or transgendered person to agree that I, Ronnie wrenchBiscuit, have the right to decide who can speak, what they can say, and how they should feel. The retarded man who can barely tie his shoe lace is as beloved of God as a Tesla, or an Einstein. The mentally handicapped also have an opinion and a world view. But it appears that the consensus of some here is that they should not be allowed to venture too far from the short bus, and that they are not worthy of our respect or tolerance. We should all beware of this movement toward a politically correct fascist state.
Here is a deceptively simple poem that I wrote and posted in response to the Q&A: "I just want to know: Do you agree with same-sex marriage or gay marriage? by herrypaul
This poem answers the question by asserting that I agree with same sex marriage because God created all three: Adam, Eve, and Steve. It further illustrates that Adam and Eve were necessary for procreation, but the poem does not specify the purpose of Steve. However, this omission is not a slight toward the homosexual community. Instead, it clearly reveals the depth of my artistry, and the great mystery of life. And this is a perfect example of why the OP's request for censorship is unacceptable.
An ignorant person could easily construe such a poem as being disrespectful, when in truth it is a work of art that acknowledges that God has a purpose for homosexuals, or they would not exist. The question I ask in the poem "But who made Steve ... if God made Adam and Eve?" is the cryptic key that unlocks the meaning of my message. How so? Anyone familiar with Christian theology understands that Satan created nothing here on Earth. On the contrary, Satan only came to destroy what God had already created. Consequently, there can be no argument that it was God who created Steve, which by default means that Steve also plays an important role, and serves an important purpose, whether we understand that purpose or not.
My Special Thoughts on Same Sex Marriage: © 2016 wrenchBiscuit
They say that God made Adam and Eve
Not Adam and Steve
If that is true
It means Adam was bisexual
And Steve was gay
But who made Steve ... if God made Adam and Eve?
And if God would have made Eve and Steve
Instead of Adam and Eve
There would have been no Cain to kill Abel
Not in the Earth
Up in Heaven
Or up in Hell below it
But out of sexual frustration
Eve would have killed Steve
And that would have been the end of the world as we know it
If you give a monkey a loaded gun, a power saw, or a weed whacker, there is a good chance that he might hurt himself. Why? Because he is a cute little monkey. But in the proper hands, a gun could be used to protect your family from evil thugs who have come to steal your land, rape your daughters, murder your brothers, and place the remainder of your decimated race on reservations. In the proper hands, a power saw can be used to build yourself a home. And in the proper hands, a weed whacker can be used by illegal Polish immigrants to beautify your home and your property.
And it is the same with religion. Religion is simply a tool, and it can be used properly to seek understanding and wisdom, or it can be misused as a tool of oppression. The erasure of Religion will not solve the problem of Homophobia. Religion is a creation of man, and so it can be perverted. And man did not create God, but only an interpretation of God. If we were to take religion completely out of the picture, the hatred and intolerance of the American mainstream against homosexual men and women would not only continue, but it would be on the increase. I believe the popular notion that Christianity exacerbates Homophobia is highly overrated.
Yes, the Bible speaks of "sodomites" and condemns homosexual behavior, but we also see in the Bible a condemnation of Adultery and Lying. In fact Adultery and Lying are referred to more in the Bible than homosexual behavior. However, we don't see hate groups running to and fro across the United States spreading hate speech about Adultery, or committing hate crimes against adulterers. The only people who are proactive in this area are the spouses, or the significant others of the Cheater's. And we also don't see hate groups promoting hate speech against Liars. Yes, there are a number of people who have publicly accused Hillary Clinton of being "the greatest liar of all time", but the majority of Americans simply don't care. And so it follows that the Christian Religion cannot be held accountable for Homophobia, nor can we accept that Atheism would provide us with a cure.
In spite of the overall hypocrisy that we all have witnessed within the Christian community, Religion does create a buffer zone, a code of conduct to at least aspire to, and it is the only thing standing between the homosexual and a hungry pack of wolves. And it is evident that many Atheists have also been influenced by the Golden Rule. Read, Learn, and Prosper.
The Wisdom of wrenchBiscuit : What Is "OFF Topic?"
Apparently, there are some people on this thread who do not know the meaning of "off topic". But not to worry! I am here to help those who are having difficulty navigating the Forums. I will teach through example. For instance, lets us assume that someone has started a Jerry Springer type thread with the title. "I Slept With My Girlfriends Mother, and My Girlfriends Mother Is A Man! Does This Mean That I Am Gay?"
Now imagine a respondent answers in the following manner:
"What a stupid question! Please don't tell me they let you have children!"
The OP Responds:
I am not stupid at all. I have a Masters Degree in "Online Censorship and Moderation Techniques" from Harvard, I also ... (And then the OP continues with a litany of degrees, awards, and certificates he has received, in order to refute the charge that he is stupid)
In this example we can clearly see that there is a very fine line between someone who is "off topic" and someone who is simply following the flow of an online conversation. We cannot say the original respondent was off topic, because he was reacting directly to the question. Had the respondent commented with, "Hey, did you guys hear the new Justin Timberlake release?" then obviously he would have been off topic.
As far as the OP is concerned, he was also responding directly to the respondents comment with a rebuttal. And so everyone is still on topic. Even if the OP feels the need to digress with 3 paragraphs on how educated he is, it is still directly related to the original topic.
I hope this brief tutorial has helped. And of course, this post is on topic as I am responding directly to comments made about off topic comments that were made on this thread. Read and Learn.
wrenchBiscuit: On Waking In Oz and Getting In Tune
It helps to explain who you are, but other than that you have added nothing of value to the discussion. I have grown accustomed, as well as immune, to the vitriol of my subordinates. And I have always found the Scarecrow to be the most realistic, and the most pathetic of the three. The superior intellect understands that it was the OP who posted in this particular section of the Forum. And anyone with an IQ of at least 100 should understand that he is not giving a "tutorial". And if he is giving a tutorial, then someone please explain to us what he is teaching. The "Community" aspect of his original post is valid. However, the fact that he necessarily needed to identify his grievance also places his original post in the following categories as well.
• Gender and Relationships/Gay,Lesbian, Bi-Sexual & Transgender/ LGBT Discrimination
• Politics and Social Issues/ Social Issues/ Gay,Lesbian,Transgender Issues
Based on his original post, as well as the comments I have posted and followed, I see no major deviance from the original topic.
Furthermore, anyone who understands musical theory will realize that a stringed instrument, such as a piano, viola, or a guitar, can be tuned to relative pitch, as opposed to concert pitch. In Concert Pitch the note "A" above middle C is tuned to a frequency of 440 Hz. However, we can tune A above middle C to any other frequency, such as 450 Hz. As long as all of the other strings on a particular instrument are properly tuned relative to A at 450 Hz, then the instrument will appear to be "in tune" although it is not at Concert Pitch.
Apparently, everyone is in tune here except for the whiners and the complainers.And maybe some are highly strung?!
wrenchBiscuit: "I Am A Bass Frequency"
If you are referring to those who are fanning the flames of revolution here on Hubpages: Yes, they most certainly are. I suggest that these wannabe moderators and public censors should seek employment with law enforcement. Then they could tell everybody what to do, and even beat people up, or kill them if they didn't comply in a timely fashion.
If you are referring to me then you are mistaken. In a musical sense, I am more akin to a low bass frequency. As you know, unlike the higher frequencies, the bass frequencies can be the most annoying, and the most difficult to contain.
The man in the picture didn't like loud rap music, or low bass frequencies. And so, he murdered a young man in Florida, and now he is in prison for the rest of his life. This is what can happen to people when they so desperately want to rule the world.
Agreed! And your analogy fit's well with the great Hank Locklin classic"Please Help Me I'm Falling",
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DndK5hZBgu0
This song would be great for an anti-censorship ad. Am I "on-topic"? You bet I am!
wrenchBiscuit: Back To School Days
Apparently you would like me to take you to school. So let us proceed! I have not called you any names, so please, put your strawman back in the corner. Your assumptions make a very weak argument. But let me remind of one of your previous posts. And here, there can be no misunderstanding. You comented:
"...I would have thought that someone as intelligent as yourself (or so you keep telling us - and remember just because you keep saying it doesn't make it so ...)
Call it what you like: slander, ridicule, derision; by anyone's playbook you singled me out for the sole purpose of slinging mud in my direction. Anyone would find such a remark demeaning, as it is an attempt to cast someone in a negative light; that someone being me. To the best of my knowledge I have never singled you out, but those days are over. Welcome to my world!
Many of you are quick to make a disparaging remark, but you are even quicker to cry foul when the tables are turned. Many people are against homosexuality because they feel that it goes agaisnt the natural order, or that it is against their religion. And so, whether right or wrong, they have a tangible reason. Overall, they feel that homosexuality is "bad".
In your case, it appears that you have decided that a very sexy and intelligent man, a man like Ronnie wrenchBiscuit, has no right to show pride in himself, or to speak of his intelligence, his talent, and his good looks. But on the otherhand, based on your previous commentary, I am led to believe that you are accepting of "gay pride", and of people "coming out" about their homosexual lifestyles. But there are many who are offended by homosexual parades, and images of homosexual men and women holding hands on Hubpages, Facebook, the silver screen, and in public places
And now, I see that you are no different than those who would deny the homosexual; those who would deny homosexual men and women the right to publicly express pride in themselves. You have decided that I am a "bad" person for having self-confidence, of being proud of myself, and for speaking of it publicly. However, I am thankful for the many blessings that God has bestowed upon me, and so I stand upon a mountain and shout it to the world. But when I do, you come quckily throwing stones. You want me to be ashamed of who I am, and of how I feel. And so you take the pride I have in myself, drag it through the mud, and then hold it up to world as if to say,"Ronnie wrenchBiscuit, you are a nothing, you are a nobody, and you are just a fool who has deluded yourself. And the armies that appear to stand before you are only windmills".
Yes, you and others here who stand in defense of the homosexual man and woman, and who champion the homosexual's right to be loud, to be proud, and to be openly gay, have not hesitated to amuse yourselves at my expense. And there are several words that can be used to describe those who walk down a one way street, saying one thing while doing another. But I will let you decide which one to choose.
Thanks you for the apology! I had hoped that you would respond in a mature and thoughtful manner.
Just to be clear;which one are you going to worry about?
The responses are pretty much going to prove the point of the picture. It doesn't take being much of a mind-reader to know that. Just knowing the audience.The OP never mentioned his hubs in his post did he? Yet Phoenix took it upon himself to make respond by attacking Mister Hollywood''s hubs and calling them offensive and vulgar. That's called shaming someone in public and its a form of bullying. The hubs has nothing to do with the discussion happening here. Why bring them into the conversation at all?
Question: Would it not be better to take the approach, "I can see how that might be offensive to someone?"
I love free speech too and am glad for HubPages. Not sure what that has to do with what you wrote here in response to MH's post though._
Even if you feel up to it, I would urge caution and take a shower immediately afterwards! They kind of draw in some of the most angry, unhappy, and mentally twisted!
And so you are suggesting a fascist state is better? Free speech isn't :"free" when the content is decided by a particular group or agenda. I am Indigenous. I have dealt with racism my entire life, and so did my parents. I even find the Statue of Liberty offensive! Hub pages is full of white racists. But I have not once attempted to censor anyone., as I am not concerned with dogs barking.
Censorship is evil. If that is what they are doing in the UK, then that is not a place I would want to live. It's bad enough here. No one has the right to dictate the parameters of self-expression. I don't really care if the racist says hateful things about my people. That is what they are supposed to do. Otherwise, they would not be white racists. It is the same with homophobes. That is who they really are. You cannot change them. They were born evil, and they will die this way.
I speak my mind here and elsewhere. But I am not trying to make friends, nor am I trying to change anyone's mind, or make them understand my point of view. You cannot take something evil and turn it into something good. Who told you that lie? I have freed my mind from mental slavery. I do what I want and I say what I want, just as the evil Americans say what they want to say. This is as close to perfect as we have been able to get. I have no desire to go backwards.
She sounds like a very sexy woman. Perhaps she is proud of her privates, and it is good to be proud of the many blessings bestowed upon us by God.
I have read your story, but I can tell a very different story. I am mixed race Indigenous, and I also grew up in the mid-west. The black people were very nice to me, but the whites were very violent and abusive. At one point they attempted to force my parents from their 200 acre farm, and my parents had to buy a rifle and a shotgun in order to protect themselves from the evil racists.
Your story and your conclusion ignore the history, and the dichotomy between white and black in America. If you are mixed race then most likely you look like a white person. I am mixed race, but I have dark skin and high cheekbones. An Indigenous person can recognize me in a crowded room. And when a Black person sees me they apparently don't see a white person. Any animosity that a white person may experience coming from a black person is usually from a defensive posture, and has nothing to do with racism, as racism requires an element of superiority. It is absurd to suggest that a race of people who have suffered the degradations of slavery for nearly 400 years, and who continue to suffer abuse over 500 years after the evil Invaders began the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade, would feel "superior". The black people have had it worse than me, but even I did not feel "free" until I joined the Navy after high school and was stationed at Pearl Harbor. Living in Hawaii was the first time in my life that I did not feel the weight of white racist oppression. The term "reverse racism" is an oxymoron, and such a thing does not, and could not exist. White racists have simply perverted the term "racism" in order to promote a false narrative.
But the homosexuals who seek to enforce censorship on Hubpages should study the history of the African and the Indigenous in the "Land of the Free". No amount of censorship will change the heart of evil. No amount of legislation will bring the homosexual man and woman acceptance among the Sons of the Pioneers. At best, what they will be able to create through censorship is just another plastic, imaginary world. Many advances made by the Black and the Indigenous during the Civil Rights era were superficial at best. And today people of color are still discriminated agaisnt 50 years later! The police are still murdering the Indigenous and the African disproportionately, and with impunity; 50 years later. And economic opportunity for minorities is not much better; 50 years later.
The homosexuals are kidding themselves if they think that the legalization of homosexual marriage is a magic pill that guarantees acceptance.
I've been reading this thread, and been sitting on my hands for two days...
I'm all for freedom of speech. After all questions are just what they are and thoughts and writings are also only what they are. Everyone can't always agree with you, it happens all the time, it's human; that why we were provided a brain even though the new world order would like us to stop using it.
Much time would be gained by putting things in perspective. I'm not shocked when I read hard words, true thoughts, sincere posts or answers to any question.
Instead I'm shocked when in some parts of the world, the simple fact that someone is an homosexual - or is considered as one - means that this person will end up naked in the street, beaten to death by people judging, sentencing and applying justice in less than 5 minutes.
Or when I think of other parts of the world, where being homosexual can get you officially sentenced to death: hung or beheaded in public because it's considered as a sin that you should be forbidden to spread.
In some parts of the world you can't say that you're gay or lesbian unless you're ready to leave this world. And don't dare saying that you're bi... let alone transgender.
That is putting things in perspective... There's nothing worst than that, isn't it?
As someone pointed out, laws can't change the minds. You can't force someone to like you nor can you force someone to agree with your point of view, your preferences, your habits, your style, your hairdo, your clothes, and so on.
Not even fines can do that.
With fines and strict laws, you can only make the individual shut up and get him/her frustrated, in which case he/she might use physical violence in return. And you don't want that, don't you? Neither me... I'm against any kind of violence.
As far as you can get back in History, homosexuality has always existed. It was a known "inclination", silently accepted but officially rejected, and criticized. There have always been pros and cons. Things won't change, and certainly not if one is forced to it. Freedom of speech insures us to be free to say what we think.
Some of my friends are homosexual, and even though in my country homosexual marriage has been legal since 2003, these friends have never got married nor are they pro. Lastly, the country next door's debate went so far that my friends got hit big time, which is why they dislike the LGBT (in addition to being a lobby and support one specific ideology). So as you can see just saying "I'm against this or that" doesn't automatically imply hatred.
Since I put things in perspective, between words and death, I choose freedom of speech
Just my two cents. Wishing you all the best
How is blueheron derailing the discussion? By asking a question that is on topic, and that no one can seem to answer? By highlighting the subjective nature of the term "hate speech?" Apparently, your idea of a meaningful discussion is when people sit right down next to the Big Rock Candy Mountain, hold hands, sing a rousing rendition of Kumbaya, and then start preaching to the choir.
The point that was made is valid. A Nazi can rightfully say that anyone who speaks ill of the Nazi Party is engaging in hate speech. And from their perspective they would be correct. A convicted rapist and murderer could also make the same claim about people who make hateful remarks about rapists and murderers, and from his perspective, he would also be correct. Anyone with an agenda, whether it be right or wrong, can rightfully claim that an opposing viewpoint that casts them in a negative light is hate speech. Consequently, the term "hate speech" is a dangerous, and highly subjective term that is used to force the will of one individual or group upon another,
I am a member of the most persecuted minority on this continent: The Indigenous First Nations. And so your argument not only doesn't fly, but it doesn't even have wings. Furthermore, my parents were Civil Rights activists, and I am also an activist as well. A majority of my commentary, and my Hubs are against racism,discrimination, and the status quo. I have never posted any derogatory commentary about homosexual men or women.
Among the Indigenous nations, homosexuality has never been persecuted and treated as it has in the white Christian world. Many of our people have also understood that the homosexual is a "3rd gender". Furthermore, many of our holy men, shamans, or "medicine men" have historically been bisexual or homosexual. Our societies overall have always been more progressive than Europeans in how we have respected, and accepted women and homosexuals. Many Christians are apparently still suffering from a mental illness that has perverted the message of Jesus.
I am a defender of freedom. And in this ever growing police state, we are enjoying less and less freedom. The Ku Kux Klan are my natural enemy. But I champion their right to speak their foul language. I grew up in a part of this country where the Klan regularly burned crosses within a 40 mile radius of our home. My parents also suffered because of the racist whites. As a student of history, I know the evil history of the Klan. But it is not possible to protect my right of free speech if I deny others the right to speak, even though I may find it offensive.
You call it the last argument, but I say it is the best argument. A conditional freedom is no freedom at all, and only an illusion. And what do you gain once you are able to force your will upon others? In the end you will simply live in a world of two faces; a world where many will privately despise and discriminate against the homosexual, but where they will publicly display acceptance, a phony smile, and many kind and sympathetic words. What you are advocating is a fascist world of make believe. A good example of this is the demonization of the N-word in public. In spite of the fact that it is no longer fashionable to publicly use a word the white man has been using for over 500 years, this word and it's meaning is still in the heart of many white Americans. Very little has changed at all. The Indigenous and the Black man are still disproportionately murdered by cops, and minorities are still discriminated against when seeking housing and employment.
It appears that in your mind, anyone who doesn't agree with you, and your agenda is a hater. But here your attempt to slander me has backfired ! You may as well call Jesus the devil, or the Lion a pussycat.
wrenchBiscuit: The Return of The Antibody
How ironic! Let the world take note that this individual who seeks to censor the rest of us for "hate speech" is now directing hateful speech in my direction! Here, this individual has proclaimed that I am "a slave of hatred". This is obviously meant to be a derogatory statement.
Your vitriol is simply a mask to hide the fact that you have no valid argument to support censorship. And you are also like many others here who will commonly prop up a strawman and then base their argument on a fiction. And so, you have painted yourself into a corner. I challenge you to show me where I have commented that I hate anyone. I have often commented that I am of a superior intellect, but that is no secret, as this is revealed in my deeper understanding. But I do not consider Love and Hate in such a primitive manner as you are suggesting. So please, either verify your accusation, or refrain from any future derogatory comments. Practice what you preach.
wrenchBiscuit Shares His Special Secret With The World
Here in your entire commentary you did not cite one instance where I commented that I hated anyone or anything. And that was the original question. Furthermore, there is no such thing as a Conspiracy Theory. But if there were such a thing, it would not necessarily have anything to do with hate. And your comment "wild attempt to crush my enemies" is pure conjecture, and has no basis in fact. But for the sake of argument, this is also not indicative of hate. Do you honestly believe that a cat hates the mouse? Do you believe a hungry pride of Lions hates the antelope as they eagerly engage in their bloody feast? You do not know how I deal with my enemies, as it has been revealed that you do not possess such an understanding. And if you find my thoughtful commentary to be tiresome, then why do you insist on tormenting yourself by reading it?
You make many assumptions, which leads me to believe that the crystal ball you purchased at Wal-Mart has sorely malfunctioned, and you should immediately seek a refund. Not only did you not answer my question, you now raise a similar strawman by implying that I am full of rage. Is that how you perceive the truth as it is revealed? As rage? It is clear from your commentary that you have a need to be accepted, to be appreciated, and well liked by the members of this online community. But I have no such needs. No one here cares if I live or die, and so, even if I had a need to be "taken seriously" as you suggest, I would not seek such support, or affirmation here on this platform.
No, this is not for my benefit. I am not looking for followers, or anyone to agree with my perspective, and I am certainly not trying to change anyone's mind. But since I am a free and sovereign entity, I am not compelled to explain my purpose, or my motivation to you or anyone else. This thread I am responding to was placed in an open public forum. And so, the public has responded. But you are not happy with what the public has to say, as it does not suit your agenda. Apparently, you are the one who is filled with hate, and even though you persist with your demeaning remarks, I have not responded in kind.
And so, as I have just proven , even though you have said a lot, you have said nothing at all. You have raised up your unholy strawman, and you have based your entire argument on a fiction that exists only in your own mind. But not to worry, there are many who have challenged me here on Hubpages, and they have all failed miserably in their attempts to destroy my resolve, and my righteous arguments. But I will now share with you the secret of my success, and that secret comes in two parts:
First of all, I have a great self confidence, and I love myself. I love myself on the inside, and I love myself on the outside. And still I possess 20/20 vision. I love what I think, and I love what I feel. If I were a woman, I would want to be with me. If I were a gay man, or bisexual, I would also want to be with me. If I were a lesbian, I would make myself straight just to be with me. Even the angels want to wear my red shoes!
But the second part of my secret is the most important part. And that part is "The Truth!" I only deal with the truth, and my arguments are based on the truth. And the truth is like titanium steel. It cannot be bent and it cannot be broken. And this is a great teaching that I have shared with you today.
We have not been formally introduced: Let it be known that I am Ronnie wrenchBiscuit. My father was a great mid-western farmer and Civil Rights activist, and I am one of the greatest songwriters of the late 20th and 21st centuries.
Word: What is mind-boggling is that when people respond with their own opinions that are directly related to the topic, there are those individuals who cry foul, and label any opposing viewpoint as being disrespectful or hate speech. In Nazi Germany they burned books and executed many people who opposed the National Socialist Party. This has happened in many countries. It appears that the United States is headed in that direction. Everything that I have posted here, as well as the opposing posts by others, is on topic. Furthermore, when anyone makes a false accusation against someone in a Hubpages Forum, the accused has the right to rebut that false claim, as I demonstrated in my last post.
If you or anyone else do not want to hear opposing viewpoints then you should not be posting in public Forums. And I will now challenge your false claim of disrespect. Please provide us with your evidence that I or anyone else disrespected the OP, or the gay community in any of our responses. Since all of the original responses are here for the world to see, that should not be too difficult if it is true. But of course, it is false, and so you have nothing to provide. You have made it clear that respect for the gay community is not the issue here, but instead it is a desire to censor the opinions of others. Furthermore, I suspect that my comments concerning self-confidence, and self love have perhaps also set you aflame. But I challenge anyone to demonstrate how loving myself is in any way, shape, or form to be considered "hate speech", or disrespectful. And who am I disrespecting or hating for loving myself? In a materialistic, capitalistic, and narcissistic society, is loving yourself now also a crime? I am only God's humble messenger, and this is a great teaching I have delivered today.
I am responding to a public forum that is suggesting censorship on Hubpages. I am responding to the topic presented by the OP, as well as derogatory remarks made against me for expressing my opinion. If you don't like my opinions then I suggest you start a new thread ( a private thread). And here you come with another false narrative. Please tell us what "discussion I am pursing" that is not relevant to the OP.
First of all, I never asked for your response. And based on your previous responses, I fail to see why that would be a concern.
Here is the basic idea presented by the OP.
"As an out gay man, I'd like to address a topic that I've noticed in recent months that's extremely disturbing. Specifically, I'm talking about forum posts that are nothing more than homophobic sentiments, disguised in the form of a question. ... It's disgusting these kinds of forum questions even exist.
...If any of us asked: "Are you ok with interracial marriage?", it would cause an outrage. In fact, I'm confident the "question" would be removed...
But apparently, gay folks (still) are are ok to go after. I don't know if the purpose of the posts are to spread hate or if it's a cheap, desperate attempt to increase hub scores. Either way, it's not OK..."
Unless I am living on Mars or en route to the Twilight Zone, the OP is clearly suggesting censorship. There can be no argument on this point. Consequently, any opposing viewpoints that have been posted are directly related to the issue of censorship. Why? Because if the OP gets his wish, no one will be allowed to post anything that might be even remotely misconstrued as opposition to the homosexual lifestyle. Homophobic devil worshiper's, as well as Christians who are sincerely opposed to homosexuality based on their religious convictions, will no longer be able to express any opinion that does not glorify the gay lifestyle. Even an innocent question like: "Have Any Of Your Gay Friends Ever Made A Pass At You?" could be interpreted as homophobic. The issue of censorship is the fundamental basis of the OP's argument, since in order to appease the OP, Hubpages will necessarily have to increase censorship of anything relating to homosexuality. Read, Learn, and Prosper.
MakingaMark,
Thanks. Most of the comments here I'm choosing not to respond to. The reason - a good number of them prove the point I was trying to make.
That old saying really is true.
You are quite bold to attack and suggest that I have my "own agenda". And what is that? An honest opinion? Please explain. You and others here are quick to make accusations, but you cannot backup any of your claims. My words are strong and meaningful, and they are on topic and here for all to see. I am a believer in free speech. As all have witnessed here, I have not responded in kind to the evil remarks that have been made against me. Instead, I have taken the high road and demonstrated the superior intellect with thought provoking commentary, instead of childish vitriol. It is not my desire to mock and ridicule the uneducated American who lives in constant fear, and who is exploited and abused by an evil government. It is only my desire to shine a light.
The homosexual, just like the heterosexual, was created by God. And so, the male and female homosexual, just like the heterosexual, are serving God's purpose. No man has the authority to question almighty God. Whenever anyone posts anything that I disagree with here on Hubpages, I am quick to respond with an opposing viewpoint. Why should I treat the homosexual community any differently? To treat homosexuals any differently than I treat heterosexuals would only demonstrate a bias against homosexuals. In effect, it would suggest that homosexuals are emotional cripples; men and women who possess such frail sensibilities that they are unable to engage in a heated debate. But on the contrary, I engage the homosexual man or woman in the same manner as I would engage the heterosexual man or woman, as I do not place one above the other.
- ahorsebackposted 7 years ago
0
wrenchBiscuit: Hypocrisy, Censorship, and a Big Beautiful Woman
Introduction:
I just got home from the beach. I went there to follow a muse and write some music, but I was interrupted by several women who were admiring me. This happens more often than not, which is why I try to go to the secluded beaches when I can.
The Rest of the Story:
Hear Ye! Hear Ye!
You are not the one to be speaking about acceptable and respectable discourse: You commented eariler:
"At the time, I think sometimes you have to just walk away fro [sic] some of the vitriol on here, or ignore the angry people with their own agenda (e.g. wrenchBiscuit)".
PaulGoodman67, I have not made one disparaging remark about anyone on this thread. Of course, the words are all there, so this can be verified. There are many who are jealous of my good looks, my intelligence, and my attributes. I will not assume to know your motivations for such slander, as only a coward, a fool, or a heavenly creature would claim to know a man's emotional state, or his motivations, simply from words he has posted here in the digital domain. Except for heavenly creatures, such cowards and fools are usually homely looking men who lack creativity, as evidenced in the lackluster essays, and commentary they post online. No, I am not one of those fools. I am only a fool for a beautiful fat woman with ample bosom, strong buttocks, an insatiable libido, and a fondness for cooking sweet meats.
Because I am only a fool for love, I am not offended by your hateful remarks. As an example: When I hear dogs barking, I am also not offended. I am only posting this comment as a favor to you as a friend. The evil words you have posted may seem contradictory to many people, and it casts you in very a bad light. Although I would never suggest such a thing, some might suggest that you are a hypocrite for slandering the philosopher, the musical composer,the provocateur: Ronnie wrenchBiscuit, and then lecturing another about "acceptable and respectable" discourse. There is nothing acceptable or respectable about slandering Ronnie wrenchBiscuit. But nevertheless, you have provided us with a great teaching. You have demonstrated to the world, that the people who champion censorship, are often the ones who are very rude, and most offensive.
On the other hand, I have seen some very respectful and helpful topics discussed here in HP, in a way that I doubt you would find in a social medium like FP. At least here in HP we do have a tradition of fair give-and-take discussion. Occasionally we get the extreme points of view which seem unwilling to bend from the obsession with narrow-mindedness. Most of us learn to deal reasonably well with those, although it can get very boring and irritating some times.
Maybe if any casual visitor does "drop in" on us, in any forum, they might get a better impression if we work harder on the respectful protocols. But I don't know of a worthy alternative venue for discussing like we do. Does anyone else have such knowledge?
Does anyone venturing here feel they are searching for a sort of Nirvana debating platform? Errr.... hello!
Moderators should do something about all those long blocks of writing too, maybe force the trolls to learn how to use paragraphs to express their ideas in bite-sized chunks! We have basic spelling and grammar standards for hubs, why not comments too?
Okay, I'm joking of course! But I do sometimes wonder if there's a link between not following linguistic rules and values, and not following basic societal rules and values of respect. (I'm getting a little philosophical now!)I am sure there is a correlation, Paul.
- ahorsebackposted 7 years ago0
Related Discussions
- 132
How come people who never write hubs, are allowed to use forums?
There are some troubled men who regularly use forums, and they have not a single hub in their profiles. How come? How is it allowed? I do not get it--- Is HubPages a chat-website?
- 48
Is it just me, or has there been less activity on Hubpages?
I have noticed that the number of forums and interaction between hubbers has been declining over the past year. What do you think is causing it?
- 124
How do you feel about people who want to use HP forums as a chat room?
Recently I'm noticing new members who have no hubs, no activity where they read or comment on hubs, and only join to participate in self interest and/or bleeding heart questions in various forums. Sort of using HP as a chatroom. Before anyone attacks me for this, please know I enjoy the discussion...
- 20
The world can see the questions I ask?!
HI I'm new.. and I think.. that if someone (that isn't a Hub Page Member)visits my Hub page and scrolls to the bottom of my page they can see all the forum activity I have been a part of. I'd rather this info not be available for the world to see... is there a way to "turn off" the...
- 43
No longer have permission to answer questions?
To date, I have been denied permission to ask and/or answer questions because of revenge? mark downs by disgruntled hubbers. I get blocked for a while, then un-blocked, then blocked again. Also some of my Q&As are deleted by HP staff without notice or a chance to defend my position. The Q&A...
- 11
Should Hubpages make it a rule that to participate in the Q+A/Forums one has to
Should Hubpages make it a rule that to participate in the Q+A/Forums one has to have at least 1 hub?I've been reading a few of the questions here, and many many comments by a handful of people - several of whom seem to think that Hubpages Q+A is their personal conversion ground. Then I went to look...