like others, i have strongly considered leaving this forum, but have decided to take a sizable step back.
it's been pretty obvious of late on this forum (which is a sad reflection of the rest of the country), that if you are a 'member' of a particular group (climate skeptic, person with religious beliefs, particular side of politics), your opinion is largely ignored or openly ridiculed as being obviously wrong.
it's sad.
i try to be as tolerant is i can, and have my fair share of strong posts on some topics, but have tried not to descend into personal attacks or open hostility towards others beliefs or thought processes.
some posts (mostly unprompted and scathing), particularly with regards to religious beliefs, can be extremely hurtful and are left with little to no moderation, and because of this, it's not surprising that some members are taking steps back.
when hurtful posts (on any topic) from some members are left with no moderation, the inference can be made that they are a protected species, which has been mentioned in previous posts.
i'm also of the opinion that post count does not equate to worthwhile input. that's not to say that those with high post counts should not be respected, but those with little to no posts should also be respected equally as those with post counts into the thousands.
i think a sad example of the direction of the forum is the little to no activity in the 'giveaway thread' over the last 6 months or so, and this, IMO, speaks to bigger issues.
in the end, i've said my piece. take it as you will. i hope everyone on the forum has a peaceful and blessed 2020.