I find that it is easy for me to get very cross on the internet when things are not going my way. 
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I will admit that on 2 threads in other sections recently I have allowed scottishmummy's post to upset me - and I have flounced off the threads!
So strange really thinking about it. Actually the internet is different as it provides more robust arguments and more varied opinions than in a typical day to day conversation.
A couple of things I think tortoise has said recently have resonated with me (possibly not on this thread).
One was about the conversation changing due to the Overton Window. Well it the conversation moves it can always be moved back again - and this is probably more effective if it is just moved rather than "we were trying to talk abou XYZ".
The second thought was about "traditional female debating/arguing etc" - I always want to bring people round to my point of view and get frustrated when I don't. My DH and some of his friends enjoy arguing for the sheer fun of it.
I think I enjoy this also but have been "moulded" by my upbringing/experiences to think that disagreement with me = personal attack.
However even my own personal experience has shown that even if I disagree with something today I may very well change my mind in the future - so it is important for me to be open about other opinions and choices.
Something Thebossofme said on the intro thread was interesting: "I also care very much about the use of language in debate, so you will see me use the phrases "I think" and "I believe" a lot when I am expressing opinion rather than fact. I love debate, and I dislike sermonising and preaching.
I think (see what I did there 
that it is worth bearing in mind all the new posters to this section and the lurkers and making sure that things are explained as much as possible and people's questions are answered.
I will endeavour to do this (and I did indeed do so on that thread and it was appreciated and commented on).