Don't know if I dare ask this ..........

[chappie]

Is anyone missing Mamjet?

[jno]

some people feel uncomfortable when they get replies in rude or aggressive terms, even though it's only a collection of pixels placed there by a complete stranger. It can be hard to remind yourself that it's just the internet, not real life.

[chappie]

jno, I agree, but sadly, when you post on a public forum such as this, you open yourself up to a whole mixed bunch of people who contribute to the site. It's a lesson you learn early on (at least, I did!)

I think that's where people go wrong - they read Mamjet's reply and take it personally.

But in the case of the lady and the fish van - of course this lady will realise it's a joke reply, because Mamjet wouldn't know she had children, would he? And he would have no way of knowing if they were scallywags, would he? So I honestly cannot see how that could be taken offensively. A joke in bad taste, maybe - depending on your sense of humour. But not offensive.

There are many on the Answerbank who don't like frivolous replies. There are people who do like frivolous replies. I personally think it is all part of the diversity of human nature, something we will never change, and it's best just to let the jokers get on with it.