I normally stay away from posting often between February and July. Mainly, because I prefer to provide information about the application process; the academy/military in general; nominations; and improving yourself as a candidate. Plus, this time of year, I really have a hard time with posts about those who didn't receive an appointment; and how life/the process is unfair. (Not everyone, don't read into it). And because I haven't posted much recently, I doubt this thread has anything to do with me. But; sometimes I like to give my $0.0392949459 (Inflation).
But, I would like to respond to Theyellowfellow's post. This is the "REAL WORLD". And as such, there are some things to recognize when posting on the forum.
1. You GET what you PAY FOR. (How much did you pay for the advice, questions, etc. you wanted to know)? Did you get your MONEY's worth?
2. The vast majority of contributors on this forum; who have direct experience with the military/academy (Meaning: current cadets, parents of cadets, ALO's, active duty, retired military, and accepted applicants preparing to enter); have a DEEP Respect and Passion for the military/academies. For the alumni, active duty, and retired personnel (and family members), we/they've put MANY YEARS of their lives into this. They don't take it lightly.
3. As such; one of the biggest concerns for these posters, is that the military/academy, is all about being part of something "BIGGER THAN YOURSELF". So sorry, if the concerns of the military/academy trump the feelings/concerns of an individual. This isn't picking on you; or chiding; or degrading; etc. Simply put; we/they care about the military/academy more than we care about you. This isn't personal. It's something they are PART OF. The military/academy is part of THEM. It's hard to explain if you're not part of it. It's not a matter of disrespect towards you, but respect for the military/academy/institution. They want the best people applying and attending the academy and becoming military members. It can come across some times as arrogance; but it's not. It's personal to many.
4. Frustration: This is probably the biggest issue on the forums. Not just this forum, but many forums. I would probably be safe betting one of my paychecks, that there isn't a question that can be asked, that hasn't been asked yet on this forum. YET..... many posters want the EASY WAY OUT. They don't search the forums. They don't reference something someone else mentioned first. They ask questions as if they, and their questions, are so unique. Yes, some replies could be a little more thoughtful. But it's quite frustrating when the same questions seem to be asked and answered so many times.
5. Finally; anyone that knows me, knows that I will intentionally go out of my way to NOT BE POLITICALLY CORRECT. I don't believe in it; I believe it is one of the major social downfalls of our country. As such, I tell it as it is. I will not intentionally disrespect you or any other poster. But I'm also not afraid to "Call the Baby Ugly" either. If you ask; "How are my chances", I'm going to tell you to read the other 240,394 posts on the subject first. If you ask something specific, I ASSUME that you want a direct and honest answer. I will NOT try to make you feel good if I think the truth is what you need. Can I be NICER about posting something? Probably. Will I try to be nicer? To be honest, I will NOT EVEN GIVE IT A SECOND THOUGHT. Why? Because I DON'T KNOW 99% of the posters here. 99% of the posters here have never met me. THEREFOR; NOTHING that I say here, should be taken PERSONALLY by you or anyone else. If I don't know you PERSONALLY, then I can't say anything to or about you that you should take PERSONALLY. I CAN'T offend you. Only YOU can BECOME offended. Why is one person offended, upset, etc. about something someone says or does; and yet another person almost equal in every way, ISN'T offended??? Stop thinking that everyone else should become nicer, less offensive, kinder, etc. Instead, think of how YOU can mature, and become LESS offended or have your feelings hurt.
Best of luck.
(JUST KIDDING!!) The attitude towards posts on this forum generally depends on the perception of you as a poster. Make sure you check your tone/writing to be sure it comes across humble and wanting to learn. I have only had positive responses on the forum - indicative of the graciousness of these very knowledgeable people who put up with us young and naive people. JMHO
When our 'clever 'OP replied to Cerberi , the OP 
