First of all this is a great website for finding unfiltered information and a far better place to find out what is going on than any other media outlet. However, it can be quite daunting to post especially if one's opinions don't follow the majority. Here some observations I've made while lurking...
1. The great majority of people are very kind, but the few who are way out there can be very vicious
2. Not everyone is a computer genius, so cut a little slack
3. As in the Danny Pearl family posting, some of us found our way here due to a highly publicized death of a family member. We do read people's opinions and at times it can be hurtful.
4. But all in all, best website out there.
Recommendation for really really new people, read and read and then read some more. You'll find out the informal rules.
Glad you finally started participating! Welcome aboard!