A friend of mine forwarded me this link today, to a post at Danny Carlton's blog (and the ensuing commentary) about "Education wolves in Homeschool sheep's clothing".

Without commenting on the subject matter itself (which I shall do at a later date [which would be defined as "whenever I have the time and energy, so don't bother asking my opinions just yet"]), I wish to comment on the tone and language used by both "sides" in the commentary on Danny's blog entry.

Last I checked, calling a person "liar, liar, pants on fire" was juvenile.  It lost its wit about the 3rd grade for me, personally.

Calling other individuals morons, questioning their intelligence or ability to read, or anything else about them, is not an argument for one's case.  It's a little trick the politicos use, and it's called mud-slinging.

Folks, I don't care which "side" you're on.  If you wish to express yourself intelligently, and make specific points to support your case and detract your opponent's case, I'll read it or listen to it.  So will other people, and they will be more likely to support your cause or be swayed by your comments to at least respect your opinions as valid.

If you're just going to sit around and wail and gnash your teeth and throw names and insults around...you'll win no man's respect.  No woman's either. 

You might give them heartburn, a headache, or a good laugh at your expense (or your opponent's) but you shan't win their respect, admiration, or support.  There are people on both ends of the spectrum represented there that I probably actually do agree with, but I wouldn't bother to say so out loud, based solely on their inability to present a clear, fair argument without resorting to name calling. 

There's enough division in the homeschooling community, whether it comes from secular vs. religious homeschoolers, one denomination vs. another, one method vs. another.  Face it, folks...we don't all agree!  Suck it up.  Move on.  Sharing opinions and doing research is one thing.  Spewing vinegar everywhere is another.