Donald Sensing (a sensible person, all around) has said what I would like to say, in a very cogent fashion. Not that I get that many comments, but here’s the part I feel most strongly about:
…After I closed comments for the rest of this month to save bandwidth, a reader sent me an email accusing me of “cowardice” for removing commenting and “being afraid of debate.” I really wonder why he thinks I write a blog to debate him or anyone else. I don’t write this blog to enter into debates, but to have my say about topics of interest to me. Why this person thinks I am obligated in any way to pay for hosting his commentary is quite beyond me.
The commenting feature is a courtesy, nothing more. It’s not an entitlement. If he wants to have his say, he can start his own blog.
Exactly. This is my tiny soapbox, and if you don’t like what I have to say, get a blog and say it, but don’t expect me to humor you on a blog I pay for. Power of the digital press, and all.
Good for you! I have my blog to “have my say” is what I tell people. Be kind, be honest, but blog. Comments can be deleted, so delete away! Even this one.
Cowardice? Oh my!
I don’t get many comments, likely due to low readership, but I was getting more spam than anything else. I seriously considered eliminating the comment feature altogether.
The concept that a blogger OWES anyone else a podium is mindboggling. I suppose those same folks would be offended if the local paper delclined to print their libelous letter.