re: A very rare bit of a misleading argument.
Eloquent and lyrical, though I'm not sure I quite get all the point, though I did catch the "pound, sand" part. Gosh thanks, Bowz.
So let's get down to brass tacks: Just what is it you expect me to do about RL?
You know that my theoretical power to ban him is about an atom's thick, over the mountain of the expressed consensus that's remained consistent over time, that RL is on balance an asset to the Zone, and that the majority of Zoners would frown harshly upon an ubermoderator so arrogant as to defy the popular will. I'm not dictator of the Zone, Bowser, you know that. I don't mind if you're just venting, but please don't burden me with an undeserved expectation of omnipotency.
I'd like to return to an earlier comment you made:
'm not going to sing my praises. (I would if I could. Can't find them. Can't sing, either.) In the past I've worked very hard at being as much an offender as anyone. Sometimes I regarded this place as a barroom brawl, and gleefully joined in the "fun". Where I'll respectfully disagree with you is in my current behaviors and those of the relatively recent past. Evolving into regarding this place as a rather pleasant community, I believe my behavior as an HZ participant has improved with some continuity over time. I think I stay within at least some norm for lively debate.
The failure to provide you with a similar level of positive feedback as RL doesn't mean that I favor RL over you, but it does indicate that I treat you as a different person than RL...and I'm sure you wouldn't have it any other way.
Consider the fact that you're older than me, and we're both older than RL. While it seems perfectly natural to try to guide a young pup with the traditional combination of cuffs and praise, how strange would it seem if I approached you the same way? Praise from me would have little impact on you other than, perhaps, to nauseate you. I think you should consider the seeming indifference a sign of respect.
Perhap I have been remiss in my duties. I can give you the positive feedback with a clear conscience: Your posts in recent months have become visibly more serious, more organized and pointed; you've gained weight from gravitas.
Under the circumstances, I'm even less likely to risk getting my hand bitten were I to be so foolish as to try and pat you on the head and say "good boy Bowser!". But nevertheless, once more rushing in where angels fear to tread: Good boy, Bowser ;-)
[run away!]