When one makes a public posting on a public message board one opens themselves up to responses from any registered user.
Private messages are there for those time you wish to not make a public pronouncement.
Thank you so much for that information! Gosh, to think I’ve been a FR member for about 7 years longer than you and never realized that. So, in answer to your question of “Why?”...I’ve read your posts, have no interest in dialogue with you, wasn’t talking to you, and it’s none of your business.