When I first became a ham I noticed how the forums on QRZ are at times down right hostile. Very negitive to the newbys. Not at all in the spirit of this hobby. It, I am sure has scared more than a few away from persuing the hobby.
I hope some of those guys aren't Elmering any newbys, we don't need more like them.
I too have been shot at, But I know that free speech does not equate to free to say anything without reprecussions. everyone knows what happens if you yell fire in a crowded theater and there isn't one.