Yes, there is the karma of words. There is a report in the Singapore Straits
Times
of a girl who committed suicide over internet messages. I suppose she took
them
really seriously.

Courtesy is even more helpful online when users only know each other mostly
digitally.
I know that occasionally learned experts and even retired professors log in.
If we allow
differences in opinion, it is great way of broadening our knowledge.

People are not pixels. We share our thoughts and feelings.

A monk has especially to be careful in his communications online. There are
those who
are overtly polite to status, but there are those who are more outspoken.
The internet is
a open marketplace of opinions but can be a great place of learning.

If we really love studying the Buddha's Teachings and have an interest in
growing in the
Dharma, the sixfold respect (to the Buddha, the Dharma, the Sangha, the
training,
heedfulness and hospitality) (A 3:330) are advantageous here.

We are all guests here: in this website, in this world, in this body.

I hope my message is taken for its good intention rather than a challenge to
anyone.

Thanks, Ven Yuttadhammo, Kuan & Gunnar for your honest thoughts.

Metta and mudita,

Piya

On Nov 23, 2007 2:32 AM, Gunnar Gällmo <gunnargallmo@...> wrote:

> --- f <fcckuan@... <fcckuan%40gmail.com>> skrev:
>
>
> > Example #2 (Another classic example that you often
> > read or hear people say):
> > "With all due respect, . [followed immediately by
> > something disrespectful]".
>
> Very popular in political and academical discussions,
> perhaps inspired by the practice in martial arts to
> bow down to your opponent before hitting him.
>
> A good example in less cultivated circles is:
>
> "I'm not a racist, but I think that xxx-ians just
> stink."
>
> Gunnar
>
> http://metrobloggen.se/esperanto
>
>
>
>
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