Those that know me well know that I have no problem with speaking up and saying what I feel when I want to. (Those that know me also know that the previous statement is a fairly huge understatement!)
I felt the need to comment on this thread as it has been made clear that not commenting means I have absolutely no valid opinion
. As a member for of the forum for 9 years, I can appreciate that I don't have a huge post count like many others and I will comment when I feel necessary or if my opinion is going to add something to the discussion...
and of course if something I really, really need to add to the kit mountain is up for sale
It's not that I feel uncomfortable giving my opinions or having a discussion on an open forum, nor that I find myself unable to articulate my opinions in a clear and cohesive manner. I do, however, find that sometimes written responses get taken out of context or carry a meaning that was perhaps not the intention of the poster. Where opinions are divided and a discussion ensues, it is by default that those most willing to get involved and speak up carry the most weight. I am not suggesting this is incorrect, it is just how it is. In an online world where post count is considered a measure of standing, those with the highest post counts can be starting the best threads, making the most incisive comments... or not.
If I replied to every thread I read to say thanks I would probably have a post count in the tens of thousands by now, I just don't. To suggest that all of us who do not reply could just start replying thanks and leave it at that is ridiculous, as the threads would lose their underlying direction and clarity. If that happened I would stop reading threads past the initial post rather than wade through a chorus of thanks with no meaning.
To echo Goatboy, I'm not overly fussed either way to be honest - it just means that on the few times I chime into a discussion, you know I've thought about what I want to say or am in a particularly chatty mood!
Given the topic, the only way to really know what those that do not comment think is to give them a button to press
Much love,
Neil