I remember when I was new here...I learned what "I'm new here" meant real quick. I joined up, posted something without knowing how or even what the rules were, got flamed mightily and then got banned. I got my posting priviledges back after a fellow Freeper vouched for me. Mr. Robinson never explained why and after a while, I figured out on my own that I had made some pretty major mistakes.
What did I learn? I learned to shut up and learn how to do this before posting again. I learned that Free Republic isn't here just for "fun"...it's pretty serious business a lot of times. I learned what "ping" and "BTTT" meant by watching, although someone probably would have been nice enough to explain it to me had I asked.
I guess I could have copped an attitude, posted an opus and gone away in a huff. I'm glad I didn't. I'm glad I calmed down and learned how this place works. I sure have benefited from it's wealth of information and great community.
HA!
I never knew you got banned.... I had no idea I was hanging out with the rough crowd.
I remember the time just before the mods first appeared.
*ugh*
Roughhousing was common and thick skins were required.
Some complain about the mods, but looking back on some of the truly vicious flame wars and such, it is better they are here.
I got my newbie hazing.
*chuckle*
And this place is the better for it. FR is made up of good people who are willing to learn and adapt.
Wow...I never knew about your shady past! ;-)